“We tried many different combinations throughout the season,” said Payne. “Our guys gave it their all—and it showed on the court— especially on a few occasions.” 

GC’s best performance came in a loss at Hanes Gym. Greensboro College battled conference champion and NCAA Elite Christopher Newport blow-for-blow. The Captains prevailed, 65-63. Another highlight was The Pride beating DIAC co-champion Averett,  73-59. 

Seven Greensboro players ended their Pride careers this year. Leading the group was guard Phil Tensley, who led GC in rebounding the past two years. “Phil is the best rebounder I’ve ever coached,” said Payne. “He’s the type of player every coach wants. He plays great defense, runs the offense, and can score. He will be missed.”
 
 

Phil Tensley was one of seven Pride Seniors on the 2000-01 GC team. Hear Senior Night Script (Cable modem, DSL connection recommended)

 
Point guard Lee Tucker retires as the 17th leading scorer (898 points) and finishes with 231 assists, which places him sixth on the all-time  Pride list. In the backcourt, Cliff Joyner was easily the most exciting Pride player. Joyner made the most of his minutes by electrifying Hanes Gym fans with his dunks and high-flying antics.

Departing forward Wes Linzy averaged 10 points and 6 rebounds in his two years at GC. Lamont Sides played just this season at Greensboro College, but he managed to lead the team in scoring (10.4 points per game).

Ed McKee closed his career as the third leading shot-blocker (53) in program history. Fellow center Donzell Owens provided a defensive presence and dedication in his tenure at GC. 

During the later part of the 2000-01 season, three true freshmen saw a lot of playing time. Daron Williams started most of the season (8 ppg) and is expected to be one of the club’s primary outside shooters. Trey Williams emerged as GC’s starting point guard, and also has a fine shooting touch. Marcellus Morgan, who transferred from Hampden-Sydney, worked his way into the lineup. He can play either point or shooting guard spot and may have the most potential of any Greensboro player. 

Forward Pat Small, who will be a senior next season, was GC’s most improved player. Fellow rising senior forward Khalid Greenaway and future sophomore Justin Parrish are Greensboro’s other returnees in the frontcourt.

With the loss of seven seniors, The Pride has holes to fill for next year’s team—especially in the front court. “In NCAA Division III basketball, what you do in May and June is sometimes more important than the actual coaching season of November to February,” Payne said. “We’ll be recruiting and setting the foundation for our future.”