There's only one word to describe the 2009-2010 version of the SF State's men's basketball team -- new.

The Gators will have new starters at all five positions this year, making an early start to the season in Anaheim versus Kentucky Western that much more challenging. Unfortunately for the Gators, this earlier-than-usual start means it will be a trial by fire for the new-look squad.

Head coach Bill Treseler, however, insists that an early start to the season is no excuse to under-perform as a team.

"I think it's a big challenge. You can't complain or moan about it because every team's playing by the same rules," Treseler said. "The team that accepts the challenge will probably be the one to come out on top."

With so many new players, it will be up to returnees like Derek Fletcher to help mentor his new teammates and provide veteran leadership.

"We had great leaders last year with guys like Alex Thomas and Will Logan, and we want to do the same thing for these guys," Fletcher said.

What the Gators lack in experience, they definitely don't lack in confidence, which will be key for SF State in getting off to a good start to the season. Marquel Hoskins, a standout guard and transfer from Reedley College, knows just that, and says that he's ready for the challenge that lies ahead.

"I've been waiting for this for a long time. Now that it's finally here, everybody's going full gear," Hoskins said.

SF State's most daunting challenge this season, obviously, will be overcoming their inexperience as a squad. The few returning players from last year's team don't seem to be too worried, however.

"I think we'll be fine," said Phoenix O'Rourke, a returning junior. "All the new guys are juniors and there are a few freshmen. The freshmen are really smart and the juniors are even smarter. We're already meshing great."

The Gators will also have to find a way to fill the scoring void left by last year's starters Robert Hayes and Alex Thomas who averaged 15.9 and 13.4 ppg, respectively. Treseler admitted he had confidence in the new and returning players to fill that void well and doesn't expect a drop off in production because of the turnover of talent.

"I have high expectations. I don't look at this as a year where we have to step back," Treseler said. "With the new players we brought in and the attitude we're seeing from them, this can be a very competitive team."

SF State will look to use their speed and athleticism to overcome their youth and overall inexperience. If newcomers like forward Tim Pratt and Hoskins are able to digest the offensive and defensive schemes in a timely manner, something Hoskins has said he's had no problems doing, it will give the Gators more time to gel as a team and focus on making a postseason push.

Basketball history has shown youthful confidence can only carry a team so far before inexperience kicks in, so it will be up to the Gators to show that their youthful enthusiasm can make up for their lack of veteran leadership and experience and match last season's success.

2008-2009 Overall Record: 14-14

CCAA Standing: 6th

Key Additions: Marquel Hoskins-PG, Aaron Trigg-G, Tim Pratt-F, Nefi Perdomo-G

Important Subtractions: Robert Hayes, Alex Thomas

Season Opener: Oct. 30, Disney Classic basketball tournament vs. Kentucky Wesleyan in Anaheim, Calif.

Home Opener: Nov. 21 vs. Western Washington University in the main gymnasium.