It’s that time of year again, folks.

The Events Center is ready to come back to life, and this year could not be any more thrilling. The newly-structured Binghamton University men’s basketball team will have a lot to prove, and as all eyes are on the new transfers, the game this Friday will bring to light if they can all work together.

So how are the Bearcats expected to perform this year?

Well, you see, the thing is, we honestly have no idea. We are talking about a team made up of several transfers from all over the United States — an almost totally different lineup from last season. We just are not going to know if the players will mesh until game day. That said, these players do have great potential. Many of the transfers, like D.J. Rivera and Malik Alvin, were standout players at their previous schools, and if they can work as one conglomerate, they will be able to make magic on the court.

Truth be told, the teams’ result this season could be one of two things — great accomplishment or epic fail.

Last year was admittedly a disappointing year for the Bearcats. When Kevin Broadus replaced former head coach Al Walker, fans thought they would see a new team emerge. However, the former assistant coach for Georgetown could not immediately accomplish his goal.

A 14-16 overall record, an early exit from the America East Championships and the departure of the star players is not something to be content about. We have no Mike Gordon, no Lazar Trifunovic and no Richie Forbes. Broadus has a lot of heat on him this year as a second-year coach to turn things around — especially since the guys he put on court are his guys.

The Bearcats have been the center of attention for almost seven months now for a number of reasons, none of which have been positive.

And with this Malik Alvin fiasco, the sun isn’t shining too brightly on Broadus anymore. I hope for his sake, and for the sake of the program, that these players will be able to set aside their problems and past history to work together for the benefit of the Bearcats nation.

No doubt, these upcoming games against Mansfield and Buffalo will say a lot about the chemistry these players have between each other and the coach. Rest assured, this is Broadus’ chance at redemption.