News from the Flight Deck

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Father-to-be Micah Lancaster Ready to Lead Flight

By Dean Holzwarth, The Grand Rapids Press


Micah Lancaster is a busy guy these days.

The former Comstock Park and Spring Arbor basketball player has a baby on the way, and he and his wife, Kristen, recently purchased their first house in Comstock Park.

If that isn't enough, Lancaster is preparing for his second season as a member of the International Basketball League's Grand Rapids Flight.

"It's a little hectic right now, but things are going well," Lancaster said. "I'm looking forward to this season because we have a much better team than last year, and as a point guard that's always exciting.

"We have some experience and some role players willing to do the dirty work. All of the pieces are in place."

The 5-foot-9, 170pound Lancaster was a rookie last season on a Flight team that struggled with inexperience and finished with a 5-15 record.

Lancaster was one of the few bright spots for the Flight, averaging 14 points and six assists per game while being elected to the IBL All-Star team.

A starter early on, his court sense and leadership were evident early on.

"When we started last season, Micah was the 12th or 13th guy and I hadn't really seen him play in college," Flight coach David Fox said. "He was a rookie in the league, but after the fifth game he was our starting point guard and he became an All-Star.

He won a lot of big games for us, and he did a great job of running our offense."
Fox is even more impressed with Lancaster's demeanor and positive outlook.

"He's one of the hardest workers that you'll ever meet, and he's actually a better guy off the court," Fox said. "He has high character and is always there to support me and what I'm trying to do.

"He's just a classy guy, and I know he has more on his plate now, but he's been working hard all year to come back and have a better year."

Overcoming injury, Lancaster blossomed in his first season with the Flight despite a foot injury. He had a stretch where he could barely put on his shoe and found it difficult to walk.

"It was a painful year as far as my foot, but I feel absolutely terrific now," Lancaster said.

"It was the type of injury where I had to take a break, and for the first time in six or seven years, I took four months off from basketball and just rested. I rejuvenated my body and now I feel great."

Lancaster said that it wasn't an easy transition from college to the professional ranks.

"I thought the league was tough, and a lot better than college," he said. "It was a step up, but I just wish I hadn't struggled with injuries and had a healthier season.

"With what I played though, I was happy with how I played, but I feel more comfortable this year."

Joining the Flight this season is Charles Thomas, who played for the Detroit Pistons and Grand Rapids Hoops. He's made an immediate impact on Lancaster.

"Charles Thomas is a blast to play with and he's been an awesome mentor for me," Lancaster said. "He's been a big help to my personal game and everyone around him."

The Flight will open their fourth season March 28 against the Windy City Soldiers at the DeltaPlex Arena.