June 27, 2011
="" alt="Knight Head" border="0" class="imported"> Read John Denton's Knights Insider | ="" alt="Twitter Logo" border="0" class="imported">Follow us on Twitter | ="" alt="Facebook Logo" border="0" class="imported">Get social with the Knights on Facebook
By Doug Richards
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Most college basketball fans do not associate June and July with the sport. But according to UCF head coach Donnie Jones, the summer months will go a long way to determine the success of his Knights in 2011-12.
The summer B session begins on Monday on the UCF campus, and nearly all squad members are enrolled and taking classes. The session will also allow the Knights the opportunity to get a head start on the upcoming campaign.
The group on campus includes three freshmen: guard/forward Rod Days (Miami Gardens, Fla.) and forwards Wayne Martin (Jacksonville, Fla.) and Kasey Wilson (North Port, Fla.).
NCAA rules prohibit coaches from working with their players over the summer. Jones expects that the Knights will be busy on their own, executing individual drills and playing pickup games inside the UCF Practice Facility.
"The summer is a good chance for our guys to get stronger. Hopefully our leadership knows what is expected. They can workout together and also play pickup," Jones said.
In addition to working on their individual skills, Jones expects his players to spend time bonding during the summer session.
"That is important from a team-building standpoint, spending time together," he said. "It is good for the freshmen, to bring them into the family, and let them know what is expected day in and day out. They will also be able to develop relationships."