Cougars won 24 games but missed higher goals

The College of Charleston men's basketball team had a successful season, winning 24 games and reaching the CAA Tournament semifinals under new head coach Chris Mack. While most teams would celebrate this achievement, Mack felt there were higher expectations to meet. Mack returned to coaching after two years and noted that Charleston has a proud tradition in Division I basketball, boasting the sixth-best winning percentage in history. Despite the team's strong performance, he expressed a desire for more, saying, "We had loftier goals, loftier expectations." The Cougars faced challenges after losing their former coach, Pat Kelsey, and two key players to other programs. Mack had to rebuild the team, bringing in nine new players, including international talent. This restructuring meant that the team needed time to find its chemistry. Key returning players like Ante Brzovic and CJ Fulton made a significant impact, helping ease the transition for the team. Mack acknowledged the importance of these players, particularly their experience and skills. As Mack looks ahead to next season, he plans to use the transfer portal to fill gaps left by seniors who have now graduated. He believes that the changing landscape of college basketball could work to the Cougars' advantage. The team has a solid foundation with some returning talent, and they have signed a new high school player, Chadlyn Traylor. Mack emphasized the need to find experienced players to compete effectively in their league, where older teams have had more success.