The men's basketball team cruised to a 7-0 start last season, defying expectations after losing their three best players in the previous season. However, this season, the tale is completely opposite. Instead of 7-0, they are 3-5, failing to meet expectations this time around.

Athlete of the month Derek Retos '14 has been one of the bright spots of the team, averaging 16.4 points per game and shooting a lights-out 52.7 percent from the field. Retos, who averaged 7.1 points per game last season, has stepped it up as a second-year veteran. He is the team's leading scorer and is on track to record over 1,000 points.

Retos, who is just a sophomore, refused to take sole credit for his growth this season.

"I have been fortunate to get good looks at the basket and get open shots," said Retos.

"My teammates have done a great job of getting me open and finding me and giving it to me in spots were I can have a chance to score points."

However modest he may be, Retos knocks down his shots more often than not. His 16.3 points per game are good for 7th in the University Athletic Association, while also having the distinction of being one of only two underclassmen in the top 10. To round it off, Retos is the third highest scorer in the UAA this season.

While only beginning the season at 3-5, the team still has a daunting stretch ahead, including matches against their formidable UAA foes. Retos, who has been vital in their first seven games, will be called upon even more in the next few weeks. As opposing teams notice his effectiveness from the field, Retos may find it more difficult to get open. Yet he is confident in this squad's ability to turn it around and end the season with a strong finish.

"I think we have a chance to be really good," said Retos.

"We have an overall young group, but we are also really talented," said Retos.

"We just need to continue to improve everyday and we have a chance to do something really special."

Retos did not seem content with his performance so far. He still believes that he can play at an even higher level.

"I am always trying to improve all areas of my game," said Retos.

"I feel there is always something I can get better at and help our team win games."

The Judges will certainly need Retos and the team's other main players to keep improving as Brandeis approaches the middle of the season.