The Men’s Basketball team did not have a smooth start to the season due to tough preseason competition that forced the team to know their and push their limits early. With talent across the board, which saw some potential members not even making the team, a number of potential prospects from all levels were able to only be spectators this year.
As the season progressed the team started to gain some serious momentum, ending up with a program record 20 wins in the 25 game regular season. During this impressive regular season the Lancers went on a 14 game winning streak which saw an average margin of victory of 10 points. The Lancers earned the top seed giving them home field advantage throughout the playoffs and a semifinal clash against Fitchburg State. The 5th seed Falcons would lose 74-56 to the top seeded Lancers. Ryan Rubenskas led the charge with a 22 point performance and the big man went 100% from the 3pt line.
The stage was set for a final on the John P. Brissette Court. Hometown graduate senior Erik Bjorn was also 8 rebounds away from hitting the 1,000 rebound benchmark, after hitting his 1,000 point earlier in the season. The PF/C averaged 9 points and 9 rebounds throughout the season. The contest was a cagey affair that saw multiple turnovers and poor shooting. The title was won that day and Erik Bjorn ended the contest with a season high 24 rebounds. The NCAA selection Monday saw the Lancers being selected to travel to play against Middlebury College.
The trip to Vermont saw the team get even closer together and the experience is certainly one that none of them will forget. The first half saw a lot of positive play with the Lancers snagging a 4 point lead going into half. Middlebury unfortunately came back with some excellent three point shooting and held the Lancers below 40 percent shooting from the field in the second half.When the final horns blew some of the Lancers saw their careers end, but this season is certainly one that they will hold in high regards.
Three Lancers who were interviewed for this season wrap up are sophomore Aaron Nkrumah (Worcester, MA), Senior Zion Hendrix (Charlotte, NC) and first year Chris Paul (Everett, MA).
Questions:
What's one of the games where you realized that this team had potential to be special?
(Zion)
I think opening night against WPI, everyone realized that we could be really good. We were definitely the underdogs in the matchup but we played tough and together, which ultimately gave us an opportunity to win that game. Even though we couldn’t pull out the win, it showed that if we put the work in we had a really good chance at a successful season.
How do you get into a state where you're able to play smoothly and play without any fear?
(Aaron)
Coach and my teammates gave me a lot of confidence. I was able to play my game and feel comfortable on the floor. I try to go into every game as fearless as possible and play with a little swag.
How was your first experience of College Basketball and do you think you were prepared well in HS?
(Chris)
Honestly, my first experience really woke me up, coming in as the man in HS I’m thinking I’d be able to dominate like I’ve always been, but the speed of the game and physicality of college ball, at any level, is a major jump and really different from HS. But I’d say that I was definitely prepared to learn and just enjoy the journey of hard work.
Who is someone you want to give a special thank you to who's helped you throughout your career?
(Zion)
I’d like to thank all of my teammates over the years. In particular I’d like to thank Chris Cardoso, Sam Dion and Erik Bjorn. There were times where my confidence was low and I needed their support. Each of them gave words of encouragement and trusted me.
After transferring, what is something you found here at Worcester State that surprised you?
(Aaron)
I wasn’t really surprised by anything until the second semester. I was surprised about our success and how we were able to lock in and be undefeated the second half after our loss to Wentworth.
What’s your favorite non-basketball related moment from the season so something in the locker room or in the pod etc?
(Chris)
My favorite non-basketball moment from this season has to be in mid-February where we had music playing towards the end of our practice, Ice spice came on and all the guys were dancing. Unforgettable moment.
When you look back at your career what's something you feel you’ll look back on and smile at?
(Zion)
I’ll never forget winning the MASCAC championship. For me, it was years in the making. I think the returners all knew how badly we wanted to win it this season. The feeling of accomplishment and relief at the end was awesome. Obviously, I wanted to win it for myself but it was great to see the joy and pride of all of my teammates.
What’s the goal for next year after winning the title, MASCAC player of the year and making 1st team all conference?
(Aaron)
The goal is to go back to back and win the NCAA tournament.
As a young guard what is one thing you feel the coaching staff has helped you with the most?
(Chris)
To be real with you, it’s hard to pick just one thing but I’d definitely say making reads within our offense. The whole staff been clear on what they need me to do as their next point guard so I’m just excited to see what the future holds for our program
Sophomore Aaron Nkrumah, MASCAC Player of the Year, MASCAC 1st Team All-Conference, NABC First Team, d3hoops.com Rookie of the Year and Second Team Selection
Now, time for some less serious questions….
What teammate would feel right at home in a circus?
I think Nate or Suubi forsure, they are always doing something so goofy. -Aaron
Who would you not give the aux cord to?
I wouldn’t give the aux to Tayjaun Mckenzie, he plays “wtf- kyle richh” 100x a day. -Aaron
Who would you let DJ at any party?
Nate for sure, In my opinion he’s the best DJ in the city, if you see a flier with NBizzy you know it’s a movie - Chris
Who embodies what it means to be a Student Athlete the most?
Definitely Zion- Aaron
Best Dunk package?
I have the best dunk package, if y'all don’t believe me, make everyone on the roster jump with me, they’ll go viral. - Aaron
Brandon Goris definitely has the best dunk package - Zion
Most likely to win a game of Horse?
Dan or Nate, they make a lot of crazy shots that are NOT supposed to go in. - Aaron
Zion Hendrix. Hands down. - Zion
Most likely to talk with anyone?
Nate, He talks the most and can start a convo with anyone. -Aaron
Gots to be Dan Liberatore, nicest dude I’ve ever met - Chris
With that being said the ‘22-23 Mens Basketball season has ended with nothing to hang their heads on. I am Malcolm Tate Hawkins and this wraps up my report.
