BROCKPORT, N.Y.—The College at Brockport men's basketball team aims to build on a 2017-18 season that saw them go 19-8 overall and 14-4 in State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) play, which earned them an at large bid to the NCAA tournament. Despite the first round loss, the team hopes to learn from the experience as they return eight players and have brought in a variety of talent.
 
Some key returners from last year include a pair of starters in senior guard Josh Nelson and junior forward Justin Summers. Nelson is one of the better three-point shooters on the team and his ability from behind the arc can spread the floor for the Green and Gold. Summers was a first-team All-SUNYAC selection last year as a sophomore and he will provide a presence in the paint on both sides of the ball.
 
"Justin's ability to block shots in the back of our run really allows everyone else to take chances in the full court and play aggressive," commented head coach, Greg Dunne.
 
Tyler Collins was instant offense last season off the bench as a combo guard. This year Collins' role will increase significantly as a senior. With his ability to score off the dribble and three-point shooting, he can be dynamic in the dribble drive offense. Fellow senior, Dwayne Daniel, is another guard who will be counted on to provide great energy on defense and to knock down jump shots.
 
Ryan Ingarozza is a returning senior that can provide bench depth and important leadership for the new faces on the team. Montgomery Stroman is a junior looking to overcome his injury riddled sophomore season to offer some offensive punch off the bench along with athleticism on defense. Sophomores, Davonte Jones and Xavier Merriweather aim to build on their freshman campaigns where they both saw playing time in over 20 of the 27 games.
 
The Golden Eagles welcome a host of talented transfers that have the staff excited. Chris Atkinson is a senior that shows great leadership qualities. Devante Hagins enters as a sophomore from Rochester, N.Y. who has the ability to guard all five positions, while being able to play above the rim.  
 
"Chris has the ability to control the game in many different ways, including defense, controlling the offense and scoring when needed," stated coach Dunne, "while Devante can get out in transition, which is a trait that is valuable in the Green and Gold offense."
 
Brandon Kennedy-Gay and Darius Townsend are two transfer juniors that can be assets for the coaching staff all over the floor, along with transfer sophomore Antonio Alvarez. Danny Ashley and Nate Brawdy are the only freshman on the team. Ashley is a tough lead guard that defends extremely well and has shown the ability to make plays, while Brawdy is a skilled guard with a high motor, which he can transfer to multiple positions.
 
The goal's and expectations for this team is the same every year.
 
"We want to win the SUNYAC Championship, make the NCAA Tournament and have a chance to win a National Championship," stated coach Dunne. "Making the tournament last year gave our returners a feeling of what it takes to make it to that level. The loss to MIT will help drive our group to make it back to the national spot light."
 
Brockport begins their season with a home-opener against Medaille College on Friday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.
 
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