Following a near-victory against Division I school UNLV in exhibition play, the Bods came away victorious Monday night at their season opener against Peru State in Lee Arena, winning 71-41.

Freshman newcomer De’Andre Washington led the way with 17 points and eight rebounds and was the only Ichabod to reach double digits.

This season features a great deal of change for the Ichabods as the roster has seen significant turnover from last season. The team will feature 10 new players which has necessitated the team working hard to get themselves up to speed for the coming heart of the schedule.

“All our guys have been working hard together to get ready for this year,” said Bob Chipman, men’s basketball head coach.

In particular the team, because of the loss of many of the veteran leaders from last year is looking for big output from the newcomers on the squad like Washington.

“De’Andre is a big guy who is very versatile for us, being able to post up or take it outside and hit some shots for us,” said Chipman.

While Washington helps bring some depth and potential to the frontcourt for Washburn, Maurice Coulter could end up being a big “X factor” this season with the tools of a traditional true point guard that Washburn hasn’t seen come into the program in a while.

“Maurice is a natural point guard for us that will help make us a better team on the floor every night, seeing the court and making things happen,” said Chipman.

With Washburn breaking in so many different new players, the team is looking at a challenging year in what is a tough conference where a few plays in one or two games can decide who goes to the national tournament and who stays home.’

“The MIAA is top to bottom a very competitive conference for us every year, and this year especially,” said Chipman. “Everyone is trying to win a national title in this conference every year.”

Washburn will host Saint Mary Thursday night at 7 in Lee Arena.