The Waves kick off their long-awaited 2015-16 season this Friday with a road game against Fresno State. Last season, Lamond Murray Jr. made significant contributions in league play by averaging eight points and scoring in double-figures eight times.The junior guard/forward expressed his excitement for the season to finally be underway and the special chemistry the team has formed, which he hopes will help lead them to the NCAA Tournament.

Q: What has the team been working on in preparation for your first game against Fresno State this Friday?

A: Mostly we've been working on being strong and solid defensively, and also offensively running out and being the fast team that we are. Knowing that we are going to be a good team this year, we want to make sure we come out every night ready to go.

Q: With most of the players from last year returning, what areas has the team improved on?

A: We have a lot of chemistry.We've had that in past years, but now it seems like we just flow and we know what each other is thinking on the court. We are a lot more comfortable with each other and we all share the same goals.

Q: How does it feel being ranked third in the WCC in preseason polls and hearing all of the positive media coverage for the Waves?

A: It's always good having positive media for us but we all have a higher goal in mind; we feel like we can win the league this year. So preseason rankings don't really mean a lot to us because we have bigger dreams that we want to achieve.

Q: With such high expectations, what is the team's mentality as the season is almost underway?

A: We are all excited just to start playing because we feel like we have a special thing going on and we want to put it to work.

Q: Last year you gained a lot of momentum in league play and became a big contributor to the team. What role do you see yourself having this year?

A: Whatever role Coach wants me to be in. If that means doing what I did last year, then I'll do that for the team. Whatever is best for the team is what I want to do.

Q: What are you most excited about this season?

A: Hopefully going to the NCAA Tournament. Also, playing with these seniors because it is their last year to share the bond that we have on the court. So I'm looking forward to playing with all of these guys that I share a family bond with.

Q: What should fans expect during the games?

A: Faster play and a lot of dunks.