All-Decade Team

D3hoops.com came under its current management at the beginning of the 1997-98 season, and we've seen a lot of players come and go over the years.

Since we weren't around for most of the 1990s (and granted, neither was the World Wide Web), this is our first chance to do a real retrospective on the best players of the decade. It's from our first decade: 1997-98 to 2006-07.

The All-Decade Team was compiled from D3hoops.com All-American teams and was the subject of much debate among the staff. Capsules are compiled by staff and contributors, including those who saw these players multiple times: Paul Erickson, Jeffrey Febus, John Gleich, Bob Quillman, Gregory Sager, Kennan Timm and Matt Turk.

First Team bios and stats

What others say: "Whether we were running a conditioning drill or competing for a national title his desires were the same: just WIN ... The best clutch three-point shooter that I have ever coached and maybe ever seen ... He was a complete player who could score inside/outside or with penetration and could defend anyone on the court ... Was a terrific player with unlimited ability ... Pretty consistently considered the best player in league history. He has the statistics and accolades to back up this statement."

Second Team bios and stats

What others say: "One of the most unselfish great players that I have coached. He didn't care if he scored two or 22 as long as the Redmen won ... I saw him develop over the years. He was a tremendous competitor and someone I definitely wanted in our program ... He’s the most complete player I’ve ever coached, and on top of it, he had one of the most positive competitive attitudes I’ve ever been around ... The work ethic that led to his and the teams’ success, set the example for all athletes."

Third Team bios and stats

What others say: "He is a better person than he was basketball player.  It was truly an honor to coach him ... He could shoot the three, he could put the ball on the floor and finish at the basket, or at 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds, he could post up ... His dedication, intense work ethic and tremendous competitive nature led to his personal success on the court ... One of those very rare, total players that found his way into Division III athletics ... His personal discipline is largely responsible for his success."

Fourth Team bios and stats

What others say: "He worked tirelessly on his game and came back to campus each fall with a new tool in his arsenal ... He deserved everything that he got because he worked hard for it.  I always thought he was one of the top ten guards in the country ... He was always very poised and had a great understanding of the game.  He hit big shot after big shot for his team ... I have never coached a player that had the ability to score more consistently."

Honorable Mention bios and stats

What others say: "He could do just about anything – shoot the three, drive to the basket, make foul shots, play defense ... Helped give our program the toughness on the floor that we are still known for today ... Not only one of the finest players I have ever coached, but he is also one of the finest human beings I have ever been around ... One of the most outstanding players that I’ve coached in 44 years ... Is someone who won't let you lose.  He's mentally tough."