Published: Sunday, November 08, 2009
Updated: Friday, October 16, 2009 10:46 AM CDT

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Saint Louis opens practice Friday in preparation for its Nov. 14 opener against Southeast Missouri State.

The Billikens have another young team, with five freshmen on the roster and junior guard Paul Eckerle the lone upperclassman. Last season’s team was built around senior guards Tommie Liddell III and Kevin Lisch and a group of freshman recruits.

Sophomore point guard Kwamain Mitchell had 113 assists last season, most ever by a Saint Louis freshman. Willie Reed, also a sophomore, averaged 7.7 points and 4.6 rebounds.

Practices continue to be closed under coach Rick Majerus, who’s beginning his third season. Saint Louis was 18-14 last season and 8-8 in the Atlantic 10 Conference.