But more important than the on-court adjustments is the new off-court change. The players have a positive attitude, much more positive than last year. They say this year is going to be a good one for Harvard basketball.

"I've been pretty impressed with Frank," says 6-ft. 6-in. junior Bob Hooft. "He's bringing in a new kind of basketball and it's more enthusiastic than last year. Satch was a good coach; but it's just two different styles of coaching, and so far I've been impressed with Frank."

"We're going to have the physical edge at the end of the game because Frank's working us hard now," says sophomore guard Steve McIntosh. "Everyone's thinking positive and we'll be both physically and mentally sound. We can challenge for the Ivy Title. It's a whole new system, stressing a lot of fundamentals and the constant movement will be exciting. Frank's very personable and he's getting a lot of things done for the team," McIntosh adds. "The way things were going just wasn't too hot, but now that's all changed. Once we show the fans what we can do, I think they'll keep coming to the games. People are curious about what's going on and I think that will bring in support."

"It's a welcomed change," asserts Irion. "This is the way basketball is supposed to be played. The attitude of the club is improved and it's like a fresh, new start. Frank is going to get a little respect for the program, and he's working hard with the alumni, the players, and the Friends of Harvard Basketball.

"The people who come to the games are going to see exciting play, and they'll come back. This year, you'll see guys hustling, and that will bring fans. Right now, it's football in the fall, hockey in the winter, and the beach in the spring; but we want some of the winter fans. We're willing to share with hockey, and we're gonna get some support."

"I'm very optimistic," says Cyrus Booker, returning after a year off from Harvard basketball. "Frank keeps practice moving and everyone's attitude is real good. Everyone is working real well."

"Everyone's excited," adds Harvard's big man, 6-ft. 9-in. Brian Banks, who also returns after a year off. "We're going to have a nice team because everyone wants to do something."

Ultimately, the story behind Harvard basketball is it's freshness. With new coaches, some new players, and a new moving look to the offense, the Crimson hoopsters are out to make an impression.

"UMass opens the season here November 30 and they don't know what's going on. They know there's a new coach and all, but what if they walked into a packed gym--that would really stun them. That's why fans are important to the team right now," McLaughlin says.

"The days when Penn and Princeton came here to walk all over us are gone. No one will take Harvard for granted any more," he promises.

The players appear just as confident about the new Harvard look. "We're gonna surprise a lot of people this year," is the overwhelming opinion at the IAB.