Basketball season is well underway, and both the men’s and women’s teams are enjoying their fair share of success.

The men’s team beat Christian Brothers University on the road this week to improve their record to 10-6 overall and 4-4 in the conference.

While that record is not as impressive as it was at this point last season, there is no reason to believe the team cannot win games, said senior forward Wes Long.

Of their six losses, four have been by less than 10 points.

“The team this year just hasn’t been able to pull out the close games like we did last year,” Long said. “It’s been tough.”

The Lions have had to overcome several other challenges this season, but have done so due to players stepping up and making a difference.

Junior guard Nathan Spehr took over the role of starting point guard in the wake of senior Marquel Darrington’s knee injury. Spehr has been putting up solid scoring numbers for the Lions and is currently leading the Gulf South Conference in three-point accuracy.

This year’s team is experienced, featuring five seniors on the roster. Most of the team previously played in the postseason on last year’s team. Only three of the Lions’ eight conference games to date have been played in Florence, meaning the Lions will get to face most of their conference rivals in Flowers Hall late this season.

“We’re just going to have to come in every day and play as hard as we can and put ourselves in a position to be successful at the end of the season,” Long said.

Wins like CBU could be critical for the men’s team.

“With some big wins already this season, UNA has shown its potential to be one of the best teams in the GSC and the South Region,” said Assistant Sports Information Director Shane Herrmann. “The big win at Christian Brothers on Saturday could be the turning point to a special season.”

The women’s team has also faced challenges this season, but has still managed to post an 8-6 record so far. First-year head coach Missy Tiber has significantly changed the system of play for UNA, increasing the tempo and utilizing a fast-paced offense.

“Our whole mindset is different now in the way we approach a game,” said junior guard Lauren Faris.

The Lions are still struggling to achieve consistent play in the new system. While the transition may be a weakness for the team, they are not without their strengths, she said.

“I think the team chemistry is what makes us so great,” Faris said. “We really all get along so well, and we’ll do anything for each other.”

The season is far from over for the women’s team, though, she said.

“The Lions have lost some close games and proven they can play with anyone,” Herrmann said. “There is still time for the team to gel and the pieces to fall in the right place. If UNA peaks at the end of the year, they could make a deep postseason run.”

If both teams can capitalize on the upcoming five-game home stand and play consistently, a championship season could be in the works.

Both teams will take on the University of West Alabama Thursday, Jan. 23 in Flowers Hall.