"The first thing we look at after a day like this is did we get through it healthy, and I'm pretty sure we did that," said head coach Tim Plough. "We did a good job today of taking care of each other while still having a physical practice. I was happy with all three phases of the game, including the communication and the lack of penalties. We were very clean today which is good.
"We ran the ball well and converted on first downs all day long, driving consistently all day. And on defense I thought that we tackled well and showed that we can put pressure on the quarterback. It was also good to see the defense not give up a lot of explosive plays.
"I also thought Hunter [Ridley] had a great day, hitting a bunch of kicks for us. That's the great thing about having a kicker like Hunter, he can come in there and bang one through for us anywhere. Overall, I thought we had a really good day."
Marion’s fast-paced, up-tempo and prolific offense called the “Go-Go” is designed to gas teams with waves of players and misdirection.
Had Sac State been approved, the Hornets would have been ineligible to compete in the FCS postseason. They are now eligible, and a Big Sky crown is the first of two championship goals for the program. This will be Sac State’s final season in the Big Sky after joining nearly 30 years ago. The program will play as an independent next season, meaning no conference affiliation.
“We’re going to try to be at the top of any list,” Marion said of expectations. “Wherever we play, whatever league we’re in, whatever we’re trying to get accomplished, it’s to be great, to be the absolute best, to be No. 1.”
He added of the team’s hunger to compete, “We’re starving, and we’re hunting everybody.”
"Mike brings an unmatched passion and energy to our program," Les said. "His knowledge of the game, combined with a relentless work ethic, will make him an invaluable part of our staff and a huge asset to our players. He's a rising star in the coaching profession, and we're excited to have him join our team."
"I'm incredibly fortunate to be joining the UC Davis men's basketball program," Kosich said. "What Coach Les has built here is something you don't see often in college basketball—real continuity and a culture rooted in longevity and trust. That kind of foundation is exactly the type of environment I want to be part of, contribute to, and grow in for the long term."
"Joining the Mountain West is a tremendous step for UC Davis, and doing so under the leadership of Coach Les made this opportunity a no-brainer," Kosich added. "I can't wait to get to work and help build what's next for Aggie basketball."