DECATUR - Some height and healthy bodies have been high on Tim Littrell's wish list.

He went out this past spring and did something about height. The Millikin men's basketball coach will soon find out about the health.

The Big Blue basketball team gets to hit the floor as a unit when Division III teams are allowed to start practice Sunday.

The men practice 7:30 to 10:30 Sunday night with the women starting their sessions earlier in the day.

"It's an exciting time for every team," Littrell said. "We're looking forward to it."

He figures this bunch, a mix of veterans and touted youngsters, will be able to get Millikin past the past of hovering around .500.

"I think the key is being able to win close games and staying healthy," Littrell said. "I thought we were really playing well last year until we had those injury problems. We need a full contingent of guys to do well."

The youngsters include 6-foot-8 Robert Rexroade, who figures to contribute right away. Also in the group is 6-7 Zach Ott and 6-7 Joscar Demby.

"We are a little taller, and I think the young group will be awfully good in time," Littrell said.

Possibly joining them on the floor soon will be Mike Gavic and Bryon Graven. Gavic was to hear today how his reconstructed left knee is healing. Graven has been recuperating from having his knee cleaned out.

The women are preparing for a new look, too. Last year, the Big Blue were led by five seniors who had been solid contributors since their freshman seasons.

But Lori Kerans' 2006-07 bench will be without a single senior. She'll have five juniors, 12 sophomores and 10 freshman to work some magic with.

Helping her will be one of those graduated stars. Joanna Conner has stayed at Millikin to be a volunteer assistant coach.

Mike Albright can be reached at malbright@herald-review.com or 421-7909.