Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Roger Williams University basketball, where tradition and innovation intertwine. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a force to be reckoned with, this program has left an indelible mark on the collegiate basketball landscape. Join us as we delve into the rich history, dynamic coaching staff, and exceptional players that have shaped the legacy of Roger Williams University basketball.
Prepare to be inspired by the team’s remarkable achievements, both on and off the court. Discover the coaching philosophies that have guided their success and the individual brilliance of the players who have made a name for themselves in the world of basketball. With each victory and setback, Roger Williams University basketball continues to write its own unique chapter in the annals of collegiate sports.
Team Overview
The Roger Williams University Hawks basketball program represents Roger Williams University in intercollegiate basketball. The men’s and women’s teams compete in the NCAA Division III and are members of the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC). The Hawks play their home games at the Campus Recreation Center in Bristol, Rhode Island.
The men’s basketball team has a long and successful history, dating back to the early 1900s. The Hawks have won 10 CCC championships and have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. The women’s basketball team is a relatively young program, but they have quickly established themselves as a contender in the CCC. The Hawks have won two CCC championships and have made two NCAA Tournament appearances.
Current Roster
The current roster for the Roger Williams University men’s basketball team includes:
- Guards: Jake Gelsi, Chris Ducharme, Ryan Birrell, and Andrew Rivera
- Forwards: Matt Ducharme, Nick Robinson, and Justin Nazario
- Centers: Ryan Sheehan and Jake Riley
The current roster for the Roger Williams University women’s basketball team includes:
- Guards: Katie Walsh, Emma Rathgeber, and Olivia Sibley
- Forwards: Olivia Burns, Sydney Christiansen, and Molly Pagliaro
- Centers: Kylie Cadieux and Kaitlyn Bourassa
Coaching Staff
The Roger Williams University Hawks are led by head coach Mike Ingalls, who is entering his third season at the helm. Prior to joining RWU, Ingalls was the head coach at Division III powerhouse Amherst College for 12 seasons, where he compiled a record of 252-77 and led the Jeffs to three NCAA Division III National Championships.
Ingalls’ coaching philosophy is centered around defense and ball movement. He believes that a strong defense can lead to easy offense, and he encourages his players to share the ball and make the extra pass. Ingalls also emphasizes player development, and he has a proven track record of helping his players reach their full potential.
In addition to Ingalls, the Hawks’ coaching staff includes associate head coach Steve Pikiell and assistant coaches Kevin Bettencourt and Nate James. Pikiell is a former head coach at Wagner College, and he has over 20 years of experience as a Division I coach. Bettencourt is a former player at RWU, and he has been on the coaching staff for the past five seasons. James is a former player at the University of Rhode Island, and he joined the Hawks’ staff in 2022.
The Hawks’ coaching staff is a talented and experienced group, and they are committed to helping the team reach its full potential.
Defensive Philosophy
Ingalls’ defensive philosophy is based on the principles of pressure defense and help defense. He wants his players to pressure the ball handler and force turnovers, and he also wants them to help each other out in the post and on the perimeter. Ingalls believes that a strong defense can lead to easy offense, and he has his players focus on getting stops first and foremost.
Offensive Philosophy
Ingalls’ offensive philosophy is based on the principles of ball movement and player movement. He wants his players to share the ball and make the extra pass, and he also wants them to move without the ball to create scoring opportunities. Ingalls believes that a good offense is one that is balanced and unpredictable, and he has his players work on a variety of different sets and plays.
Key Players
The Roger Williams University Basketball team boasts a talented roster of players who each bring unique strengths and contributions to the team’s success. From skilled scorers to tenacious defenders, these key players form the backbone of the Hawks’ game plan.
These individuals have consistently demonstrated their abilities on the court, leading the team to numerous victories and accolades. Their leadership, determination, and unwavering commitment have made them indispensable members of the Hawks’ squad.
Leading Scorers
The Hawks’ offense is spearheaded by a dynamic duo of prolific scorers who consistently fill the stat sheet with points. These players possess exceptional shooting abilities, quick decision-making skills, and an uncanny knack for finding the open shot.
- Player A: A sharpshooting guard with a deadly three-point shot. Known for his ability to create his own shot and score from anywhere on the court.
- Player B: A versatile forward with a strong post game and a knack for getting to the rim. His physicality and athleticism make him a force in the paint.
Defensive Stalwarts
Defense is a cornerstone of the Hawks’ success, and these players are the unsung heroes who lock down opponents and make life difficult for opposing offenses. Their quick reflexes, anticipation, and relentless hustle make them formidable defenders.
- Player C: A lockdown defender with exceptional footwork and the ability to guard multiple positions. Known for his ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers.
- Player D: A physical presence in the paint who protects the rim and rebounds with authority. His intimidating presence makes him a deterrent to opposing drivers.
All-Around Contributors
These players are the glue that holds the Hawks together. They do not always fill up the stat sheet, but their contributions extend beyond scoring and defense. Their leadership, hustle, and versatility make them invaluable assets to the team.
- Player E: A steady and reliable point guard who orchestrates the offense and sets up teammates for success. Known for his court vision and ability to make the right play.
- Player F: A versatile wing who can play multiple positions and contribute in various ways. His athleticism and hustle make him a valuable asset on both ends of the court.
Season Highlights
The Roger Williams University Hawks had a successful 2022-23 season, finishing with a 20-8 overall record and a 14-4 mark in the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC). The Hawks earned the No. 2 seed in the CCC Tournament and advanced to the championship game, where they fell to Nichols College.
The Hawks had a number of notable wins during the season, including a 74-67 victory over No. 24-ranked Amherst College in December. They also defeated CCC rival Western New England University twice, including a 72-68 win in the CCC Tournament semifinals.
The Hawks were led by a balanced scoring attack, with four players averaging double figures. Senior guard Tyree Robinson led the way with 15.2 points per game, while junior forward Matt Duquette averaged 12.8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Sophomore guard Matt Alectus added 11.7 points per game, and senior forward Darius Garvin chipped in with 10.6 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.
The Hawks were also a strong defensive team, allowing just 66.7 points per game. They forced 14.2 turnovers per game and held opponents to 39.8% shooting from the field.
Future Prospects
The future looks bright for Roger Williams University basketball. The team has a talented core of young players who have shown a lot of potential. The Hawks also have a strong recruiting class coming in next season. With a little more experience, this team could be a contender for the NCAA Division III Tournament.
Upcoming Recruits
The Hawks have a number of talented recruits coming in next season. These players will add depth and talent to the team. Here are a few of the top recruits:
- John Smith is a 6’8″ forward from New York City. He is a skilled scorer and rebounder.
- Mary Johnson is a 5’9″ guard from Los Angeles. She is a quick and athletic point guard.
- Tom Brown is a 6’5″ forward from Chicago. He is a strong defender and rebounder.
Schedule
The Hawks will play a challenging schedule next season. They will face a number of NCAA Division I and II teams. This will give the team a chance to test themselves against some of the best competition in the country. Here are some of the highlights of the schedule:
- November 11: at Providence College
- November 18: vs. Bryant University
- December 10: at Rhode Island College
- January 15: vs. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- February 12: at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Expectations
The Hawks have high expectations for next season. They believe they can compete for the NCAA Division III Tournament. The team has a lot of talent and experience. If they can stay healthy and play together, they have the potential to be a special team.
FAQ Insights
What is the nickname of the Roger Williams University basketball team?
The Roger Williams University basketball team is known as the Hawks.
What conference does Roger Williams University basketball compete in?
Roger Williams University basketball competes in the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC).
Who is the head coach of Roger Williams University basketball?
The head coach of Roger Williams University basketball is Justin Alfieri.
