Although the Men's Basketball team hadn't played a game in Alumni Gym in 247 days, the time away from the court did not seem to hurt the Phoenix, who won 100-57 against Lynchburg College, Monday, Nov. 4.
Sophomore Tanner Samson led the Phoenix with 17-points and was one of five players who scored double digits in the game.
But the story of the night was the performance by the freshman class, led by Luke Eddy and Christian Hairston.
Eddy scored 15 points, while knocking down 7 out of 10 free throws and three assists.
Hairston, on the other hand, may have had one the most memorable rookie appearances in Elon basketball history. Hairston's highlight of the night came with just over five minutes left in the first half, stealing the ball from the Lynchburg's Manny Hernandez, storming down the court and putting down a monster slam dunk that lit up the building.
"I was just making the most of my opportunity," Hairston said.
Elon went into the break with a 52-29 lead and continued to score points.
The Phoenix hit nine three-point shots during the game.
"We were able to accomplish a lot tonight," said head coach Matt Matheny.
And the Phoenix did just that, without the help of some of their key players.
Jack Isenbarger sustained a foot injury and Egheosa Edomwonyi and Ryan Winters are out for knee injuries. The three players did not dress for the game and all have questionable time-tables for return.
Isenbarger has missed much of the preseason with a "stress reaction" in his foot, but Matheny said he should be ready for full practice very soon. However, both Edomwonyi and Winters are not expected to be back for at least two weeks.
Center Lucas Troutman (nose) and guard Austin Hamilton (knee) have also suffered from the injury bug this preseason, but were deemed healthy enough to play.
Even with five injured players, Matheny has still been able to assemble a squad where players are easily adjustable and maneuverable.
The team returns to Alumni Gym, Friday evening to host Washington & Lee at 7 p.m.