Bulldogs Seek Another Run to Nationals
BULLDOGS SEEK ANOTHER RUN TO NATIONALS
SMITHFIELD, RI – The Bryant University Men’s Club Basketball team led by Head Coach Haley Connors open their season this weekend at home against Trinity College. The Bulldogs took major strides last season that earned them a trip to the Men’s NCBBA National Tournament for the first time in program history. After an impressive start to the season last year, the Bulldogs entered the national club rankings at #20 through four weeks of play. The Bulldogs continued their winning ways before finishing the regular season with a 10-4 conference record that earned them a trip to the regional tournament.
In the regional championship, the Bulldogs upset top-seeded Boston College who had not lost a game prior to the playoffs. The 84-82 victory was enough to secure the regional championship and earn the team a trip to Nationals. After making some local noise, the fifth-seeded Bulldogs took on Towson in the quarterfinal round of the national tournament before winning 113-108 in triple overtime. Unfortunately, the impressive run fell a game short as the Bulldogs lost to top-seeded and eventual national champion, Purdue, in the semifinals.
For the team’s first official season in the NCBBA, it was a great year with a lot to be proud of and build upon heading into the next season. The Club Basketball Team also took home four of the major awards from the Club Sports Banquet including Coach of the Year, Club of the Year, Male Athlete of the Year, and the Outstanding Leadership Award!
The team anticipates a great run for the National Championship again but believes it will take some work with the help of its promising freshman and polished seniors to bring the trophy to Smithfield. One of the players to watch is freshman, Javaun Calhoun, also known as “Stretch” because of his unique set of skills that will be vital to the success of the team.
Up Next:
● The Bulldogs host Trinity College in the Chace Athletic Center at 6pm on November 13th.
Full Schedule:
● 11/13/22: vs. Trinity College
● 11/20/22: at. Providence College
● 12/11/22: at. Connecticut College
● 2/19/23: vs. UConn
● 2/26/23: vs. Stonehill
● 3/5/23: at. Brown
Social Media:
● Be sure to check out the Bryant University Men’s Club Basketball team on Instagram at @bucb_bryant for updates on the team and season.
● Please follow @Bryant_Rec on Twitter and Instagram for updates on Club Sports, Intramurals, and the Fitness Center.