Aftershocks ready for redemption in TBT 2024

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Basketball Tournament (TBT) Wichita Regional returns to Koch Arena on Saturday. Wichita State University’s alumni team, the Aftershocks, are looking to take the trophy for the first time on their home court.

Many of the players have careers overseas, but they look forward to returning to The Roundhouse each year.

“You know, to come back with that love that we always had in our years of being in school, I think it’s becoming the norm for us,” said Aftershocks forward Markis McDuffie, “We’re going to keep going until they decide not to have it anymore, honestly.”

The team is looking for redemption after losing in the quarterfinals to Heartfire in 2023. This year, they’ve stacked up an even stronger roster with returners and new players.

“The addition of Jeremiah Martin, it’s going to be really big for us. Had a really good year in Russia and a really good league going back over there again. He’s one of those guys who was a late bloomer in college and just got better and better,” said Aftershocks coach Zach Bush.

The team has taken the No. 1 seed heading into the tournament, and they’re also hoping to have the No. 1 crowd.

Last year, area fans broke the TBT attendance record with 7,202 people cheering on their favorite teams.

“Home court advantage here, especially as a big thing. So, you know, hopefully, we can use that energy to carry over and get the win,” explained Aftershocks point guard Alterique Gilbert.

The last piece the Aftershocks need for success is perserverance.

“Every game gets more and more difficult. You know, you get we get a little, you know, mentally like tired, you know, so overwhelming with the fans and the media and everything that’s going on with us. But I think we kind of stay strong far and farther down. And I think right now we’re good. But when we get win and more games and everything, we need to continue to keep a high energy and high motivation so we can go and finish it and win the whole thing, I think that’s the biggest thing,” said McDuffie.

The Aftershocks take the court Saturday at 12 p.m. against No. 8 seed Midtown Prestige.

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