The Widener University men's basketball team has a rich history of competition and success in the NCAA Division III. As a member of the Middle Atlantic Conferences (MAC), the team has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to excellence. In this article, we will delve into the team's overview, highlighting their achievements, notable players, and coaching staff.
History of the Program
Widener University's men's basketball program has been in existence since the early 20th century. Over the years, the team has experienced periods of success, including conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. The program has also produced talented players who have gone on to compete at the professional level.
Achievements
The Widener University men's basketball team has achieved numerous accolades throughout its history. Some notable achievements include:
- Conference championships: The team has won several conference championships, including the MAC Commonwealth title in 2015.
- NCAA tournament appearances: Widener has appeared in the NCAA Division III tournament multiple times, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013.
- Player recognition: Several players have received All-Conference and All-Region honors, including the MAC Player of the Year award.
Notable Players
The Widener University men's basketball team has produced several talented players who have made significant contributions to the program. Some notable players include:
- Connor Laverty: A 2015 graduate, Laverty was a two-time All-MAC selection and led the team in scoring during his senior season.
- Jared Peters: A 2018 graduate, Peters was a three-time All-MAC selection and holds the program's record for most career three-pointers made.
- Kenny Battle: A 2012 graduate, Battle was a two-time All-MAC selection and led the team to the NCAA tournament during his senior season.
Coaching Staff
The Widener University men's basketball team is led by a experienced coaching staff, including:
- Head Coach Chris Carideo: Carideo has been at the helm of the program since 2013 and has led the team to several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances.
- Assistant Coach Matt Shelton: Shelton has been a member of the coaching staff since 2015 and has played a key role in the team's success.
- Assistant Coach Kevin Oxley: Oxley joined the coaching staff in 2018 and brings a wealth of experience to the program.
Facilities
The Widener University men's basketball team plays its home games at the Schwartz Athletic Center, a state-of-the-art facility that features a seating capacity of over 2,000. The center also includes a weight room, training room, and locker rooms.
Recruiting
The Widener University men's basketball team recruits talented players from across the country. The coaching staff looks for players who possess a strong work ethic, academic excellence, and a passion for the game. If you are interested in playing for the Widener University men's basketball team, please contact the coaching staff to inquire about the recruiting process.
Championships
The Widener University men's basketball team has won several championships throughout its history, including:
- MAC Commonwealth Championship: The team won the MAC Commonwealth title in 2015, defeating Albright College in the championship game.
- ECAC South Championship: Widener won the ECAC South Championship in 2013, defeating Alvernia University in the title game.
Postseason Play
The Widener University men's basketball team has appeared in the postseason multiple times, including:
- NCAA Division III Tournament: The team has appeared in the NCAA tournament several times, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013.
- ECAC South Tournament: Widener has appeared in the ECAC South Tournament multiple times, winning the championship in 2013.
Rankings
The Widener University men's basketball team has been ranked in several national polls, including:
- D3hoops.com Top 25: The team was ranked as high as #15 in the D3hoops.com Top 25 poll during the 2015-2016 season.
- USA Today Coaches' Poll: Widener was ranked #20 in the USA Today Coaches' Poll during the 2013-2014 season.
Gallery of Widener University Men's Basketball
FAQ
What is the Widener University men's basketball team's conference affiliation?
+The Widener University men's basketball team is a member of the Middle Atlantic Conferences (MAC).
How many NCAA tournament appearances has the Widener University men's basketball team made?
+The Widener University men's basketball team has appeared in the NCAA Division III tournament several times, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013.
Who is the head coach of the Widener University men's basketball team?
+Chris Carideo is the head coach of the Widener University men's basketball team.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Widener University men's basketball team. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please don't hesitate to reach out.