Fresh off a trip to the quarterfinals of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association National Basketball Championships just a season ago, the Golden Eagles basketball team travels to Sharon, PA on Wednesday to take on Penn State Shenango in their 2022-23 season opener.

The Eagles fell short in their championship bid by consecutive five-point losses to then No. 1 ranked and No. 1 seeded Penn State Mont Alto (61-56) in the quarterfinals, and No. 2 ranked and No. 2 seeded Penn State Wilkes Barre (78-73) in a consolation game to end their dream one win shy of a 20-win season (19-10).

KSU Tuscarawas graduated just one player from last year's squad with two USCAA All-Americans still in the fold. Returning are, senior guard, London Cobbs from Chicago, IL, a Second Team All-American who led the Golden Eagles in scoring at 14.6 points per game and DeJuan Lawrence an Honorable Mention selection who led the nation in blocks and offensive rebounds. They also return Kameron Shockley who earned USCAA National Player of the Week honors a year ago along with all five starters from last year's team. Point guard JaJuantae Young and shooting guard Kyle Shockley round out the starting five.

A banner recruiting year has seen this year's roster fortified with six new freshmen and three transfers. The Eagles now have the luxury of having 18 players available to play.

Last year the Golden Eagles outscored Shenango 108-88 in a foul-laden season opener when 57 personal fouls were whistled on the two teams.