Coach Tony Bennett needs his veterans to step up in 2010.

As the Nov. 12 season opener against William and Mary rapidly approaches, the Cavalier men’s basketball team is hard at work on the practice court at the John Paul Jones Arena. One of the hallmarks of this season’s squad is the sheer youth present on the roster; there are seven incoming freshman players, including one walk-on. Thanks to that, year two of the Tony Bennett era feels like just as much of a rebuilding year as the first. Bennett will rely on senior leadership more than ever as he installs his game plan in 2010. It will be up to veteran players to both set the tone for the season and to bring the younger guys along.

“The guys that have returned are in a good place,” Bennett said. “They’re working hard they’re trying to lead.”

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