Quote:MEN OF TROY

Troy was picked to finish dead last in the Sun Belt.

``We could have exceeded expectations by winning one game,” Troy coach Don Maestri joked.

Well, this same Troy team that lost its two leading scorers from a year ago off a team that finished 12-19 now sits atop the Sun Belt eastern division with a 12-3 league record.

It’s also the same team that started out the season 3-6.

``I don’t think any of us thought we’d be in the position that we’re in today,” Maestri said. “But I’ve been in it long enough to realize it can change quickly.”

Maestri said it took time for his young players to pick up his newly installed dribble-drive offense. In the past, Troy has been far more reliant on the 3-point shot. The Trojans still take quite a few shots from deep and continue to play up-tempo, but this year the system allows for me penetration to the basket.

``It’s a big learning curve initially,” he said. “They’re still learning – and so are we.”

His players have accepted roles and the chemistry has been key to the recent success – which includes a 10-game winning streak.

Brandon Hazzard has emerged after playing behind O’Darien Bassett a year ago. Hazzard erupted for a career-high 35 points in a victory over Western Kentucky this past week and is averaging 21.6 points during the Trojans’ winning streak.

Maestri has also added Mississippi State transfer Richard Delk, who is averaging 13.9 points this season.