Some people might say this year’s GW men’s basketball team is not much different than last year’s since only three seniors graduated. But after a closer look, it is impossible to overlook one player who returns after an injury kept him out last season: 6-foot-8 power forward Patrick Ngongba.

Last year Ngongba injured his finger and doctors placed a pin in it midway through the season. Ngongba was out for the year and relegated to watching from the sidelines in a business suit rather than a warm-up suit.

Sitting out was tough for Ngongba, who said he prides himself on playing team-orientated basketball.

It was very difficult for me, said Ngongba, a senior. I wished I was out there helping my team but things happen and you must get over them.

Now, Ngongba is healthy and looking to dominate the frontcourts of the Atlantic 10.

Ngongba will be looked upon to provide leadership for the Colonials and to do the dirty work, as he calls it. Ngongba said he feels he can provide guidance for the team’s younger players by working hard every practice.

Ngongba said he believes the team will rely heavily on him because of his hard work throughout the summer and in practices. Head coach Tom Penders said he is thrilled to have Ngongba back battling under the boards.

I was counting on him for big things last year but, unfortunately, he got injured, Penders said. When I mean big things, I mean he should be our leading rebounder, one of the best defenders in the league, and I believe he should be able to put up double figures every night.

Ngongba’s teammates said they realized after last season how much of the team’s success inside depends on the forward’s presence.

Pat was a big part missing down low last year, forward Chris Monroe said. We needed him. He’s a physical presence in the game, he rebounds and he’s a leader. We feel more comfortable when we can depend on Pat.

Senior Antxon Iturbe’s game will benefit from the return of Ngongba because he can move back to his natural four-position.

Last year we lacked an inside game without Pat, Iturbe said. We can make a statement by establishing our inside game before we go outside.

Ngongba, who is originally from the Central African Republic, said he cannot wait to play in front of his loyal fans.

It’s going to be very special, Ngongba said. I have the feeling the fans are very excited.

And fans should be excited – the Patrick Ngongba show is back.