PEMBROKE ­— With less than a month before its exhibition opener at Big 12 member Iowa State, The University of North Carolina at Pembroke's men's basketball team hit the hardwood at 7 a.m. Thursday for its first fall practice.

Ben Miller, entering his second season as head coach, said defense and rebounding will be the primary focus the first week of drills.

"Everything was new last year," Miller said. "Everyone had to adjust to me as a coach. Now, we feel like we have enough older players who can help teach as well. We are trying to get better on the defensive end, rebounding and our transition game."

The Braves split into position groups for the first half of practice with Miller coaching the wing players, Eldon Miller instructing the guards and Corey Thompson working with post personnel.

Laurice Ellison, a 6-foot-8 junior transfer from Southwestern Iowa Community College, showed a knack for blocking shots in the defense versus offense portion of practice. Ellison swatted five shots and altered countless others during the workout.

UNCP’s roster includes five freshmen, four sophomores, four juniors and three seniors. Miller says more size and length will help the Braves in the rebounding department. He doesn't foresee redshirting any players and expects all 16 players to contribute.

"Our athleticism is definitely better," Miller said. "Last year, we were able to redshirt a few guys and that's helped us improve. Big George (Blakeney) gives us a post presence and Nate (Priest) actually grew an inch over the summer. He's a legit 6-foot-7 now."

The two-hour session included guest appearances by graduated seniors Cortez Brown and Demarcus Lyday, last year's starting backcourt.

Brown and Lyday helped assist with practice and instruct current players on passing and ball-handling skills.

Senior 6-foot-10 center Mario Gagulic provided comic relief for the rest of the team late in Thursday's practice, shooting a 3-pointer from five feet behind the line.

The drill was designed to drive to the basket against a single defender, but Gagulic decided to try his best sharp-shooter impression. His shot smacked against the top of the backboard and grazed the front of the rim on the way down, ruining his long distance percentage.

Senior Brandon Thomas put his hand to his face for a brief chuckle before returning to his position on the court.

The Braves play three exhibition games before the season opener against Fayetteville State in Pembroke Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.