Grade is based greatly on the projected play of first-year forward Kevin Bercy. In a 109-106 double-overtime win over UPEI he impressed with 27 points and 19 rebounds and is still rounding into game shape after missing start of season with knee surgery.

Rod Madera has been consistently in the double-double range all season. One of the strongest big men in the conference who will be a key in second half, especially on the defensive end.

Freshman Cameron Walker has given the X-Men more than probably expected in his first season while former Dalhousie Tiger Alex Arthur, in his first season with the X-Men, and Shane Coupland, provide depth up front. Arthur adds to this group with defense and rebounding, while Coupland can be a presence with his shooting.

Consistency is the key with this group, especially defensively when they battle against the likes of Klassen of Acadia and the twin towers of Geugjes and Lufile from CBU.

The X-Men have a developing mix of depth and talent in the backcourt. Clarke can be electrifying and when he plays under control he is much more effective and as good as anyone in the league taking it to the rim.

Donkoh is the leader of this team. A great defender, who loves the physicality. As strong as anyone in the conference driving to the basket and unafraid to take the big shot, or key defensive assignment.

On the other end of the experience spectrum, the X-Men have freshmen Jameel Williamson and Davonte Provo. Williamson, is not a big-time scorer, but has shown maturity in running the offense and taking care of the ball. Provo has battled injuries early on, but his minutes will increase in the second half of the campaign.

A third rookie guard – Julius Antoine – has also played key minutes, showing a strong mid-range shot and key rebounding for a guard. Jordan Tyrrell, a sophomore, was off to a fast start, earning all-star status in two pre-season tournaments, but his return is uncertain after suffering a concussion.

They have been in some high scoring affairs and are sixth in the league in points allowed but there are signs of improvement on the defensive end. They have the best three-point field goal defense and are the top rebounding team in the league. Interior defense and rebounding will continue to be a major key.

Although they are only fifth in steals per game, with the likes of Donkoh, Williamson, Antoine and Clarke, the X-Men can get after it on the perimeter.

Because of the many injuries endured in the pre-season, the X-Men have developed great depth. Coach Konchalski has credited his bench as being a key component of the 5-3 start.

That depth will help keep the likes of Donkoh, Clarke and Madera fresh for the home stretch of games.