SALEM, Ore. – Warrior Nation has had to endure an extended wait to see the new-look Corban University men's basketball team in action. The team has overcome countless setbacks in the 2020-21 campaign, including numerous schedule delays, unconventional practice requirements, and all sorts of logistical challenges related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

At long last, the Warrior program is slated to make its Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) debut this weekend, traveling north to take on Warner Pacific University on back-to-back nights.

Follow along with this weekend's games with free live stats and video HERE.

"We are beyond grateful to kick this season off," said first-year head coach Taylor Kelly. "God has continued to open up doors for our players to get the opportunity to compete, and they are ready to bring life to our new home court!"

In his inaugural season at the reigns of the program, Kelly's passion for the game and for his student-athletes has led to tangible excitement for the squad in its first season under his tutelage.

The program will also get to finally make its long-awaited debut on newly-minted Tim Hills Court, which was built in the summer of 2020, and serves as a state-of-the-art court for the squad to compete on. The Warriors' first official contest will be on Tuesday (March 23) against Multnomah, while its first CCC games on the striking new floor will take place against in-state rival Oregon Tech on March 26-27.

After that, Corban will continue a four-game homestand with a pair of contests against Warner Pacific and Bushnell University (formerly Northwest Christian University), which will be the final conference home contests of the abbreviated spring campaign.

The Navy and Gold will close out the season with series against Southern Oregon (April 17-18), Eastern Oregon (April 23-24), and Multnomah (May 2-3).

CLICK HERE to view the 2020-21 schedule.

In addition to the new court and coaching staff, a number of fresh faces will mix in with an experienced returning core. Fans can expect a high-energy play style from the Navy and Gold, one which focuses heavily on relentless defensive pressure and a fast-paced offense that thrives in transition.

Kendall Moore has been very impressive in the squad's two non-conference games leading up to this weekend's action, scoring 34 points (17 PPG) between the two battles. The sophomore transfer from Purdue University Northwest is a gifted scorer, and provides a dangerous offensive weapon to the Navy and Gold's backcourt.

More of a traditional point guard, Taylor Anderson (12.5 PPG) has excelled in running the Corban offense, looking right at home at the one in the squad's first two games. Newcomers Mateo Escheik (13.0 PPG) and Jordan Newt (7.5 PPG) also help to solidify the Warrior perimeter.

Mauricio Smith's experience and leadership are invaluable to the youthful roster, and his ability to score from both down low and beyond the arc makes him a versatile asset for Kelly and company.

Under the rim, big man Isiah Quintero figures to once again be a key piece of the Navy and Gold. The center ranked second on the squad in 2019-20 with 165 boards (5.7 RPG), while also averaging 7.8 PPG.

For a complete look at the team's roster, CLICK HERE.

While the road ahead is undeniably unorthodox, the Warriors are excited to for an opportunity to compete in meaningful games after an arduous year of uncertainty. With a talented roster, a new coaching staff, and a cutting-edge home court, Corban fans have plenty to look forward to in the newest chapter of Warrior men's basketball's storied history.