Last weekend, the community of Troy took part in Troy University’s Homecoming festivities. All about the town, you could see Troy flags and signs expressing their support for the Troy football team.

People in Pike County get excited about Troy football, and rightfully so. The Trojans have brought home at least a share of three straight Sun Belt conference titles, and could go a long way towards claiming a fourth with a win Saturday over Louisiana-Monroe.

People come out to Movie Gallery Veterans Stadium in droves to see a championship-caliber team, but the Trojans of the gridiron aren’t the only championship caliber team in Troy.

This year’s Troy basketball team has a chance to be a very special squad. The Trojans return four starters, three of which were postseason all-Sun Belt selections last season and come into this year as preseason all-Sun Belt performers.

Many may not understand the excitement over a team that went a solid 19-13 last year, but it is important to remember that last year’s team played with a brand new offensive scheme.

However, there are players that can fill those roles. Levan Patsatsia and Yamene Coleman are both with SEC experience. Trayce Macon and Bernard Toombs are coming off of a redshirt season that gave them both a chance to get stronger and learn the offense more extensively.

Vernon Taylor, a junior college transfer, has wowed his coaches and teammates with his blazing speed.

But, if players like Patsatsia, Coleman, Macon, Toombs and Taylor step up, this will be more than just a fun team to watch. It will be a team that the city of Troy can watch on CBS come March.