CONWAY – Playing a basketball game in another team’s arena is tough enough. But another country? That’s a whole different story.
But that’s what Coastal Carolina is preparing to do. On Tuesday, the Chanticleers practiced for the first time in preparation for their upcoming trip to Cuba. They’ll be the first Division I team to visit the country or play the Cuban National Team. It’ll give them a good opportunity to prepare for the upcoming season.
“It really tests what we’re capable of,” guard Elijah Wilson said. “I think it’s a good test for us to come into the season, because we’ve got some new players, and we need to learn how to gel, just readjust and get ready for the season.”
But it also provides a chance to make history, which is what makes the trip so unique.
“What an educational experience it’s going to be for these guys to go over and see a country that our people have not seen in 50 years or so,” Coastal Carolina coach Cliff Ellis said. “So we’re all excited about it, looking forward to it.”
The Chanticleers leave for Cuba August 6th.
