The Cal State San Bernardino men’s basketball team rolls back into action on Monday when it squares off against Cal Baptist at the Citizen’s Bank Arena in Ontario.

There is some excitement in the air for many reasons. First, it is an opportunity to play in  a bigger venue and one that will host the CCAA Tournament in March.

Also the Coyotes will be playing Cal Baptist the first day and Asuza Pacific the second, both newcomers to Division II and the PacWest. Coyotes coach Jeff Oliver expects both those opponents to fare well the rest of the season so its good strength of schedule points for his team.

Senior forward Kwame Alexander, the master of dunks, returns after sitting out the first four games with academic issues. He alone is worth the price of admission. The Coyotes supporting cast this year also looks quite formidable. This could be the season the Coyotes get back on the national map.

Cal State is still waiting for word on another huge acquisition in guard Donte Medder, a transfer from Division I Tulsa. Athletic Director Kevin Hatcher said the NCAA recently asked for more information which is probably good. At least Cal State wasn’t given a flat out no he’s not eligible.

Here is the schedule of games for the two-day event.

Monday, Dec. 17

2:30 p.m. — Pacifica vs. Cal State Stanislaus

4:30 p.m. — Azusa Pacific vs. Cal State Dominguez Hills

7:00 p.m. — Cal Baptist vs. Cal State San Bernardino

Tuesday, Dec. 18

2:30 p.m. — Hope International vs. Cal State San Bernardino (women)

4:30 p.m. — Cal Baptist vs. Cal State Stanislaus

7:00 pm. — Azusa Pacific vs. Cal State San Bernardino

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