Friday, December 31, 2010

MIT Falls to Harvard, Hollingsworth Out for Season

Despite a great effort, MIT fell to Harvard 84-58 this afternoon at Lavietes Pavilion on the Harvard campus. MIT was led by Will Tashman, who scored 19 points and had 5 rebounds, despite foul trouble. MIT took a brief lead 6.5 minutes into the contest, but had no answer for the size and athleticism of the Harvard players, getting out-rebounded by 16 and having 9 shots blocked. More photos of the game can be found here or here.

Noel Hollingsworth, who was named a 1st Team Preseason All-American by D3Hoops.com, did not play in the game because of injury. Hollingsworth has been plagued by injury all season, starting only 2 games, while making appearances in just 6 games overall. Hollingsworth suffered a torn shoulder labrum in the first game of the season. He attempted to play through the injury, but after lack of improvement of the shoulder, doctors advised that he shut it down for the season. Hollingsworth will apply for a medical waiver (as current MIT assistant coach Billy Johnson was able to do last year), which will put him in the same athletic class as sophomores Mitchell Kates, Will Tashman, and Jamie Karraker.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Holiday Greetings from MIT Basketball

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

The MIT basketball program wants to wish all their friends, families, and fans a very happy holidays. Wishing you all the best in 2011!

Don't forget to come support the Engineers as they travel up Mass Ave to take on the Harvard Crimson on December 31 for a 2:00 PM tip.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

MIT Remains at #19 in D3Hoops.com Top 25

MIT remained at the #19 spot in the D3Hoops.com Top 25, this week, after not having any games due to the end of the semester. MIT picked up a few more votes, despite remaining stationary in the poll, for a total of 187 (+14).

In addition to MIT, fellow NEWMAC foe WPI remained in the Top 25, checking in at the #23 spot.

MIT is off until New Year's Eve, when they travel to Harvard to take on the Crimson for an afternoon showdown.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Nick Davis Dunk Highlights


Image Courtesy of Tom Gearty

6'5" freshman G/F Nick Davis arrived on campus this fall with a reputation for being a high-flyer. He has not disappointed. In the highlights below, Davis dunks three times in consecutive games against UMass-Boston, Salem State, and Lesley.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Statistically Speaking

This is how MIT stacks up statistically in the NEWMAC and against other NCAA DIII teams across the country. Stats are for games through 12/12/2010. Only statistics in which MIT is top 2 in the NEWMAC as a team (or top 100 in the NCAA) and top 15 in individual categories are listed (or ranked by the NCAA). Note that the NCAA does not rank all categories that the NEWMAC ranks. Also, Noel Hollingsworth does not qualify for NCAA rankings yet, as he has missed some games due to injury. Therefore, he is only listed in the NEWMAC categories.

Team Statistics
Statistic Value NEWMAC NCAA
Scoring Offense81.0145
Scoring Margin+18.017
FG%47.6
172
Rebound Margin+9.3113
Assists17.1
1
27
3FGM FT%7.6
1
79
FT%
73.7
2
43
Scoring Defense
63.0
2
61
Steals9.4283
FG% Defense
40.4
372

Individual Statistics

Player Statistic Value NEWMAC NCAA
Noel HollingsworthScoring15.55

Rebounds7.35


FG%49.39


FT%80.05

Blocks1.17
5
Mitchell KatesScoring14.56364

FG%50.06

Assists5.3237

FT%75.0
13355

Steals2.6253

3FG%33.3
7

3FGM1.10
10

A/TO1.89
290

Minutes30.4
5
Will TashmanScoring12.312

Rebounds8.6285

FG%47.011

Assists
2.508

FT%78.97256

Steals
1.3015

Blocks0.807370

A/TO1.56
4

Minutes
29.211
Jamie Karraker
points13.59478

Steals1.30
15

3 FG%
42.4
366

3FGM3.60
1
15
Billy BenderAssists1.9015

3FG%45.51

3 FGM1.0011
Will Dickson
Points7.826

FG%51.65

Blocks0.60
9
Tim Donegan
Blocks0.4414

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

MIT Up To #19 in D3Hoops.com Poll

MIT moved up in this week's D3Hoops.com Top 25, after another 3-0 week. MIT, previously at #21, moved up two spots by receiving 32 additional votes, for a total of 173.

In addition to MIT, fellow NEWMAC foe WPI remained in the Top 25, moving up one spot to #22.

MIT is off until New Year's Eve, when they travel to Harvard to take on the Crimson for an afternoon showdown.

Monday, December 13, 2010

More Than a Game: Anderson Family Faces Off


Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

This past Tuesday night, MIT stormed past UMass-Boston in seemingly just a regular non-conference match-up. However, for Coach Anderson and his family, the night was anything but ordinary. Stephanie Keeler of the MIT Office of the Dean for Student Life writes more in this article from the MIT News office:

The Anderson family takes the court: Father and son square off in MIT-UMass basketball game

Saturday, December 11, 2010

MIT Shoots Past Lesley

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

MIT came out strong in their contest this afternoon with Lesley University, extending their lead to 16 points with 2 minutes remaining in the first half. However, they would be plagued by inopportune fouls and poor shooting over the next 10 minutes of the contest, allowing Lesley to slash the lead to 1 point with 13 minutes remaining in the contest, 52-51. Behind strong defense, led by Daniel McCue who took multiple charges on the afternoon, and stellar outside shooting, MIT answered by mounting a 30-7 run and putting the game out of reach. Freshman Nick Davis capped off the game with a two-handed slam in the final minutes of the game, his third dunk in three games (check the blog next week for video of all three dunks). The final score was 82-61.

Jamie Karraker led MIT with 24 points, behind 8-16 shooting from 3. Karraker was one made 3 away from tying the Institute single-game record in the category. He also added 7 boards. Also playing well for MIT were Noel Hollingsworth, who had 22 points and 8 rebounds, Tim Donegan, who had 10 points on 4-5 shooting, Nick Davis, who had 11 points and 4 rebounds, Mitch Kates, who had 7 points and 4 assists, and Dan McCue, who finished with 6 points on 2-2 shooting from 3.

MIT is off for the next 3 weeks until their contest against Harvard on New Year's Eve.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

MIT Survives at Salem State

Mitchell Kates converted both of his free throws with 5.6 seconds remaining to give MIT a 76-75 win on the road this evening against Salem State university.

MIT would build a lead as much as 11 in the first half, and go into the break up by 7, but could not shake Salem State. The Vikings would use a 17-8 run at the beginning of the 2nd half to briefly take a 2 point lead with 14.5 minutes left in the contest. MIT responded, though, and did not trail again until Salem State capped off a 6-0 run to take a 1 point lead with 20 seconds to play. However, Kates would be fouled on MIT's next possession and convert the free throws.

The Engineers shot a sizzling 55% from 3, but uncharacteristically were outrebounded 47-31. Kates led MIT with 22 points (5-7 on 3s) and 5 assists. Noel Hollingsworth added 18 points and 8 boards, while Will Tashman added 8 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Also shooting well for MIT was Jamie Karraker, who scored 17 points (4-6 on 3s).

MIT travels to play Lesley University this Saturday, December 11, for their last game of the fall semester.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Davis Delivers in MIT Victory

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

MIT cruised past UMass-Boston this evening, behind solid contributions from the freshman class. Newcomer Nick Davis posted a career-high 29 points on 12-13 shooting, to go along with 7 boards. Noel Hollingsworth also played well, scoring 16 points in just 17 minutes of action.

The game was lopsided from the start, as MIT would build a lead as large as 40-15 lead in the first half. In the second half the lead grew to 35, with the final tally being 92-68.

The game recap and boxscore can be found at the Official MIT Athletics Website.

MIT at #21 in D3Hoops.com Top 25


MIT remained in the week two edition of the D3Hoops.com Top 25, after a 3-0 week. However, despite picking up a total of 34 votes from last week's poll (107 to 141), MIT dropped a spot in the poll to #21. This was due to some teams that were previously ranked below MIT in the polls picking up some wins against more highly regarded opponents in the past week.

In addition to MIT, the NEWMAC is now also represented by WPI in the Top 25, who breaks into the poll for the first time this season at #23.

MIT hosts UMass-Boston tonight (Tuesday, December 7, 2010) at 7:00 PM in Rockwell Cage.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Guard Play Dominates Gordon

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

After a recent lack of success from the outside, MIT got back on track from behind the arc this afternoon, en route to a 92-73 win at Gordon. After a close opening few minutes of the game, MIT would start to pull away, leading by 16 at the half. The lead would balloon to as many as 26 in the second half, before the final margin of 19. MIT shot 14-25 (56%) from 3 in this contest, a large improvement over their 6-31 (19%) 3-point shooting in their last game against Newbury.

MIT was led by starting guards Mitchell Kates and Jamie Karraker. Kates flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 23 points (10-15 FGs), 8 assists, and 7 steals. Karraker shot 7-9 from 3, accounting for all 21 of his points. Will Tashman added a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Noel Hollingsworth returned for the Engineers, easing back into action in a reserve role.

The game boxscore can be found at the Official MIT Athletics Website.

MIT improves to 6-1 on the season. They host UMass-Boston on Tuesday, December 7, at 7:00 PM in Rockwell Cage. The matchup will be the first time Coach Anderson faces his son, Paul, in collegiate competion, who is a freshman on the UMass-Boston squad.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Defense, Dickson Carry MIT Over Newbury

MIT overcame poor outside shooting with strong play in the post and on the defensive end, carrying them to a 61-53 win over Newbury College this evening at Rockwell Cage.

MIT came out of the gates asleep in this contest, being outplayed in every facet of the game for the first 13 minutes of action. MIT was finally awokened after the found themselves down 28-17 with 7 minutes to play in the first half, going on a 21-6 run that gave them a 4 point lead at the intermission. MIT shot poorly from distance throughout the contest, going a total of 6-31 from 3 for the game, but especially in the second half (0-13 from 3). However, strong defense allowed them to push the lead to double-digits in the second half, with the final margin being 8 points. MIT was led by freshman Will Dickson, scoring a game-high 18 points on 8-14 shooting, adding 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and 2 steals. Will Tashman also played strong in the post, scoring 15 points on 6-8 shooting. Point guard Mitch Kates led the team with 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals.

The game boxscore can be found at the Official MIT Athletics Website.

MIT tavels to play at Gordon this Saturday for a 3:00 PM tipoff.

MIT-Harvard Game Reception and Signup for Alumni Celebration

The MIT Club of Boston is again organizing an event to rally support around the MIT Men's basketball program as they get set to face Harvard on December 31, at 2:00 PM. All friends of MIT can buy tickets ahead of the date of the game for only $10 at the link below. Following the game, there will be a free reception for those that RSVP.

BUY TICKETS FOR THE HARVARD GAME AND RSVP FOR THE POST-GAME RECEPTION

In addition to the event on New Year's Eve following the game at Harvard, MIT will be commemorating the 110 year anniversary of basketball at MIT and the 150th anniversary of The Institute at its biannual alumni celebration in February. The registration for the event is now open and can be found at the link below utilizing the Infinite Connection system.

RSVP FOR BIANNUAL ALUMNI CELEBRATION INCLUDING 110 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF MIT BASKETBALL

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

MIT Cruises Past Emerson

MIT's size was just too much, as they nearly doubled-up Emerson College in rebounds, 37-19, en route to a 70-56 home victory. MIT was led by sophomores Will Tashman (22 points, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks, and 1 steal) and Mitchell Kates (15 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals).

The game started in defensive gridlock, as the score stood just 16-14 with 6 minutes remaining in the first half. MIT would finish the half strong, however, going on a 19-6 run to end the half up by 15. In the second half, MIT would extend the lead to as many as 22 with 8 minutes remaining in the game, before Emerson went on a small run to account for the final 14 point margin. The boxscore can be found at the Official MIT Athletics Website.

MIT hosts Newbury College on Thursday, Decemeber 2, at 7:00 PM in their next contest.

MIT Ranked #20 in Week 1 of D3Hoops.com Poll


D3Hoops.com has just released their 2010-2011 week 1 poll and MIT remained in the Top 25, at #20, despite an early season loss. The Engineers, 3-1, dropped from the #15 spot in the preseason poll. MIT was not alone with their early season loss, as 14 of the preseason Top 25 squads picked up at least one loss since the previous rankings were released. Fellow NEWMAC foe WPI remains just outside of the top 25, receiving the 28th most votes in the poll.

MIT hosts Emerson College tonight, November 30, in Rockwell Cage. Tip is set for 7:00 PM.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Tashman Named NEWMAC Player of the Week

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

For leading the Engineers to 2-0 week, while averaging 19 points, 9.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, MIT sophomore forward Will Tashman has been named the NEWMAC Player of the Week. The full release can be found at the NEWMAC Sports Website.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Tashman Leads MIT Over Suffolk

MIT rolled in their road win over Suffolk this afternoon, 86-47. Leading the Engineers was Will Tashman, setting team and game highs in points (22), rebounds (9), and assists (5). For full game recap visit the MIT Athletics Website. Box score can be found here.

In their next contest, MIT hosts Emerson College on Tuesday, November 30. Tip is set for 7:00 PM.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

All-Time Captains List and 110th Anniversary Celebration Announced


MIT Men's Basketball will be celebrating its 110 year anniversary this coming year and will be commemorating this historic milestone during their biannual Alumni Celebration the weekend of February 19, 2011. The festivities will include the Senior Day game against Springfield on the 19th, where this year's lone senior Eric Zuk will be honored. Also being honored will be the captains of each MIT basketball squad since the inception of the program. There will be many more events/activities during that weekend, so stay posted for more details, but please save the date!

Captains from every class who will be honored:

YearCaptains Graduating Class
2010-2011Eric Zuk
Mitchell Kates
2011
2013
2009-2010Bill Johnson
Patrick Sissman
Eric Zuk
2010
2010
2011
2008-2009Jimmy Bartolotta
Bradley Gampel
Bill Johnson
2009
2009
2010
2007-2008Jimmy Bartolotta
Bradley Gampel
2009
2009
2006-2007Alex Krull
Jimmy Bartolotta
Bradley Gampel
2007
2009
2009
2005-2006Gary Atkins
Mike D'Auria
Danny Kanamori
Phil Murray
2006
2006
2006
2006
2004-2005Adam Gibbons
Mike Huhs
Mike D'Auria
2006
2005
2005
2003-2004Kyle Doherty
Andrew Tsai
Adam Gibbons
2004
2004
2005
2002-2003Neal Brenner2003
2001-2002Neal Brenner
Sebastian Heersink
Alex Phillips
2003
2003
2003
2000-2001Craig Heffernen
John "Skip" Lucey
Klint Rose
2001
2001
2001
1999-2000John "Skip" Lucey
Klint Rose
2001
2001
1998-1999John "Skip" Lucey
Klint Rose
2001
2001
1997-1998Kareem Benjamin
John Miller
Melvin Pullen
Indran Ratnathicam
G
1998
1998
1998
1996-1997Kareem Benjamin
John Miller
Melvin Pullen
1997
1998
1998
1995-1996Tim Porter
Melvin Pullen
1996
1998
1994-1995Nikki Caruthers1995
1993-1994Nikki Caruthers1995
1992-1993Aaron Barzilai
Arik Brown
Nikki Caruthers
1993
1993
1995
1991-1992Michael Duffy1992
1990-1991David Chris Sonne
David Tomlinson
1991
1991
1989-1990David Grolte
Frank "Trae" Shattuck
1990
1990
1988-1989Mike Casagrande
Douglas Cornwall
Jerrod "Jay" Fraser
1989
1989
1989
1987-1988Mike Casagrande
Jerrod "Jay" Fraser
1989
1989
1986-1987Mike McElroy
Evan Pratt
1987
1987
1985-1986Jim Egan
Randy Nelson
Craig Poole
1986
1986
1986
1984-1985Bud Taddiken
Charlie Theuer
Jim Egan
1985
1985
1986
1983-1984Mark Johnson
Chris Wilson
1984
1984
1982-1983Mark Branch
Robert Joseph
1983
1983
1981-1982Mark Branch1983
1980-1981Bob Clarke1983
1979-1980Geoff Holman
Ray Nagem
1980
1980
1978-1979John Wozniak1979
1977-1978Richard Van Etten1978
1976-1977Peter Maimonis1977
1975-1976Kenneth Armstead
John Cavolowsky
Campbell Lange
1976
1976
1976
1974-1975Alan Epstein1975
1973-1974Robert Roth
Alan Epstein
1974
1975
1972-1973Jerry Hudson1973
1971-1972Harold Brown
William Godfrey
1972
1972
1970-1971Bruce Wheeler1971
1969-1970Bruce Wheeler1971
1968-1969Robert Listfield1969
1967-1968Dave Jansson1968
1966-1967Robert Hardt
Alexander Wilson
1967
1967
1965-1966John Mazola1966
1964-1965Robert Grady1965
1963-1964William Eagleson
John Moter
1964
1964
1962-1963Kent Groninger
Jeffrey Paarz
1964
1964
1961-1962David Koch1962
1960-1961Thomas Burns
Charles Gamble
1962
1962
1959-1960Hugh Morrow1960
1958-1959Robert Polutchko1959
1957-1958McClaren Jordan1958
1956-1957McClaren Jordan1958
1955-1956Bernard Benson
Dimitry Vergun
1956
1957
1954-1955Carl Hess1955
1953-1954Allen Schultz1954
1952-1953Russell Kidder1953
1951-1952Mike Nacey1952
1950-1951Leon Hong1951
1949-1950Louis Morton1950
1948-1949Jimmy Madden1949
1947-1948Roy Douglas Watson1948
1946-1947Roy Haddox1947
1945-1946Ted Heuchling1946
1944-1945Doug Watson1945
1943-1944Cal Taft1944
1942-1943George Marakas1943
1941-1942Ernie Artz
Jack Whelan
1942
1942
1940-1941Howard Samuels1941
1939-1940Thomas Craemer1940
1938-1939Mike Herasimchuk
Thomas Craemer
1939
1940
1937-1938Mike Herasimchuk
Paul Schneider
1939
1939
1936-1937Oliver Kangus
Vernon Lippett
1937
1937
1935-1936Bill Garth1936
1934-1935John Demo1935
1933-1934Gene O'Brien1934
1932-1933Fred Feustel
Adam Sysko
1933
1933
1931-1932Harry Johnson1932
1930-1931John Harrison1931
1929-1930Bob Nelson1930
1928-1929Bernard Brockleman1929
1927-1928Norman Estes1928
1926-1927Ernest Hinck1927
1925-1926Bill Forrester1926
1924-1925Ed Eager1925
1923-1924Stan Cook1924
1922-1923Stan Cook1924
1921-1922Cub Hubbard1922
1920-1921Robert "Tillie" Tonon1922
1912-1920Team Not Fielded
1911-1912R.S. Schar1913
1910-1911Theodore "Tunnie" Parker1911
1909-1910Theodore "Tunnie" Parker1911
1908-1909P.M. Wentworth1909
1907-1908P.M. Wentworth1909
1906-1907J.C. Kinnear1907
1905-1906Charles Burleigh1906
1904-1905Harold Blake1906
1903-1904Harold Blake1906
1902-1903Fay Libbey1906
1901-1902Frank Cox1903
1900-1901John Pell1903

Special Thanks to former MIT SID James Kramer for the preparation of this list.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

MIT Bounces Back With Big Win

MIT recovered from their first loss of the season by blowing out the Commonwealth Coast Conference favorites, Curry College, this evening, 90-63. After a close first 5 minutes, with MIT only ahead 10-7, the Engineers went on a 31-9 run over the next 10 minutes to blow open the game and never looked back. MIT shot over 50% for the game and out-rebounded Curry 45-30.

MIT had 5 players in double figures, led by Mitch Kates with 19. Will Tashman contributed with a double-double (16 points, 10 rebounds) and led the team with 5 assists. In his first ever start for the Engineers, Will Dickson filled in the for the injured Noel Hollingsworth quite well, scoring 16 points on 8-12 shooting in only 19 minutes of action. Freshman Tim Donegan also notched 12 points and 7 rebounds.

Full game recap at can be found at the official MIT Athletics website.

Full boxscore can be found here.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

MIT Unable To Overcome Poor Shooting, Lose by 3

MIT was plaqued by poor shooting, turnovers, and foul trouble today, culminating in a surprising loss to Framingham State on the road this afternoon. Full game recap can be found at the MIT Athletics Website.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

MIT Rolls in Season Opener

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

After a close first few minutes, MIT ended the first half in tonight's matchup with Emmanuel on a 32-13 run and never looked back, winning by the final of 91-61. Everyone got involved for MIT, with 12 players scoring and 11 players recording at least 9 minutes of action. Leading the way was Preseason 1st-Team All-American Noel Hollingsworth with 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks in just 21 minutes of action. Mitch Kates and Jamie Karraker each scored 17 points for the Engineers, with Kates leading the team with 6 assists. Will Tashman and Will Dickson each had 8 points and 7 rebounds for MIT.

A full game recap can be found at the MIT Athletics Website, in addition to the Box Score

MIT is back in action this Saturday, November 20, in their first road contest at Framingham State College. Tip is set for 1:00 PM.

Friday, November 12, 2010

2010-11 Season Outlook


Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

The MIT Engineers, who rose as high as No. 8 in the national rankings last season, will be looking to continue to build on this foundation and have another championship caliber season. After winning the NEWMAC regular (2010) and Tournament (2009) championships, earning consecutive bids to the NCAA Division III Tournament, and securing its third All-American in six years, MIT is rapidly transcending its image to mirror its unparalleled academic reputation. The Engineers, who debuted at No. 15 in the D3Hoops.com Pre-Season Top 25 Poll, return four starters from last season’s 22-5 team, as well as 89% of their scoring and 81% of their rebounding.

Front Court
MIT’s top returning player is middle-man Noel Hollingsworth (Salt Lake City, UT/Judge Memorial Catholic). The 6’9” junior was selected Pre-Season First Team All-America by D3Hoops.com and will enter the new campaign as the league’s reigning Player of the Year after winning the scoring race (20.4) and rebounding title (9.0). Hollingsworth is joined up front by 6’8” sophomore Will Tashman (Atherton, CA/Menlo School), who proved to be one of the most dominant big men in the NEWMAC last year as a freshman, finishing the season as the league-leader in field-goal percentage (57%) and pulling down 7.2 caroms a game.

Joining Hollingsworth and Tashman up front are newcomers Tim Donegan (Allison Park, PA/Hampton) and Will Dickson (Dallas, TX/St. Mark’s School). Donegan, a 6’6” lefty, has a long frame and a feathery touch from the perimeter. Will Dickson, 6’8”, brings to the program a wide body, excellent hands, and has the potential to be a strong presence on the floor.

Back Court
Leading the backcourt again is last season’s NEWMAC and D3Hoops.com Northeast region Rookie of the Year, co-captain Mitchell Kates (Colts Neck, NJ/Phillips Exeter). The dynamic sophomore has already emerged as one of the top point guards in the country, and has the confidence and skill-set to lead the Engineers to unprecedented heights. Last year, Kates averaged 13.5 ppg while leading the league in assists (112) and steals (57).

The Engineers benefit from the return of junior Jamie Karraker (Morgantown, WV/Phillips Exeter), who was second to Jimmy Bartolotta ‘09 as the NEWMAC’s best three-point shooter during his rookie campaign and was lost to injury last season. Karraker and sophomore Jimmy Burke (Scotch Plains, NJ/Seton Hall Prep), who led the league with 2.3 three-point field goals per game last year, combine to form a lethal combination from behind the arc.

Adding to the deep backcourt is junior Billy Bender (Woodlands, TX/Woodlands College Park). Bender (7.8ppg, 5.2 rpg), a 6’5” wingman, quickly earned the reputation as one of the top on-the-ball defenders in the NEWMAC last year. His length, speed, and uncanny ability to make timely plays are what make Bender so special.

The squad’s lone senior is 6’5” co-captain Eric Zuk (Carlisle, MA/Concord-Carlisle), the ultimate utility-player and nucleus of the team’s leadership, who averaged just over 13 minutes per game last year. Arni Lehto (Helskini, Finland/Helsingin), a defensive specialist, is another key component to the Engineers’ success this season, with his tireless work ethic and knowledge for the game.

After a two-year hiatus recovering from hip surgeries, former team Rookie of the Year, Dan McCue (Hampden, ME/Hampden Academy), returns to the team ready to make up for the time lost. Also recovering from injury is Nick Sather (Denver, CO/George Washington), who is set to return to the court by conference play.

Arguably the deepest and most game-ready incoming class in MIT history includes three wings in 6’5” Nick Davis (Omaha, NE/Omaha Creighton Prep), 6’4” Will Watkins (Holladay, UT/Olympus), and 6’3” Jon Thompson (San Antonio, TX/Judson). Rounding out the class is 5’11” sharp-shooter Josh Dunaway (Cincinnati, OH/Seven Hills), 6’2” Will Baysinger (Tulsa, OK/Owasso), and 5’9” point-guard Mike Attanasio (Los Angeles, CA/Harvard-Westlake).

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Hollingsworth Named 1st Team Preseason All-American by D3Hoops.com

Noel Hollingsworth was named a 1st Team Preseason All-American by D3Hoops.com today. This marks the second preseason All-American award Hollingsworth has received, as he was previously named 2nd Team All-American by The Sporting News. The full list can be found here.

Monday, November 8, 2010

MIT Opens Preseason Play in Strong Fashion

Image Courtesy of Dawn Anderson

MIT started off their preseason slate this past weekend with a home scrimmage against Wheelock College on Saturday night. The scrimmage started off slowly on both ends, with both teams looking a bit rusty early in the first half of the scrimmage. However, MIT's up-tempo play and size gave Wheelock problems, allowing MIT to win the first half by double digits (38-26). In the second half, MIT began shooting very effectively from the outside, jumping out to an early 10-0 lead and never really looking back from there. MIT went on to win the half 57-32, for a cumalative score of 95-58.

Leading the way for MIT was Mitch Kates at the point guard position. MIT also received solid play from other returning players, inlcuding Will Tashman (see picture above), Noel Hollingsworth, Billy Bender, Eric Zuk, and great shooting from Jamie Karraker. MIT also received great play from freshmen Nick Davis, Will Dickson, Tim Donegan, and Will Watkins.

MIT opens regulars season play on November 16 against Emmanuel College in Rockwell Cage. Tip is set for 7:00 PM.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

MIT Basketball Announces Additions to Coaching Staff

In addition to many new faces on the team this year, the Engineers are also welcoming two new assistant coaches to the program.

Rob DiBernardo joins the Engineers for his first year at the collegiate level. Prior to MIT, DiBernardo spent the last 12 years coaching at The Cambridge School and Central Catholic High School (MA). He brings a wealth of experience working with young players and a tremendous track record of succes with him. For a full bio on Coach DiBernardo, visit the official MIT athletics site here.

In addition to DiBernardo, MIT welcomes back Bill Johnson for his sixth year with the program, overall, and his first year as a coach. Bill returned for his final year of eligibility last season, after missing a year due to injury, and was rewarded by being just the 23rd player in MIT history to eclipse the 1000 career point plateau. Bill also places highly on many other individual charts in the MIT Basketball Record Book, including having the 3rd highest single game scoring performance in school history (40 points). However, Coach Johnson's is most proud of being the only MIT basketball player to ever be a part of three 20 win seasons (2005-06, 2008-09, and 2009-10), with all three of those seasons either tying or breaking the MIT single-season win mark. For a full bio on Coach Johnson vist the official MIT athletics site here. In addition to coaching with the MIT basketball staff, Coach Johnson works at a local start-up company.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Catching Up with the Captains

It has been several months since the MIT 2010-2011 captains were announced at last year's season ending banquet, and sophomore guard Mitchell Kates and senior forward Eric Zuk have both spent that time preparing in very different ways for the upcoming season. The blog recently sat down with the two captains to catch-up with them on how they spent their summer, where they see this years team going, and how the new group of freshman look, among other topics.

mitbasketballblogger (MBB): What have you guys been up to this summer?

Mitchell Kates (MK): In addition to a lot of GTL, this summer I played in the Jersey Shore Basketball League and worked on getting stronger. I put on 10 pounds from last season and gained some explosiveness. Aside from basketball, I worked for a start-up that develops extracurricular software for universities.

Eric Zuk (EZ): I worked at UBS investment bank this summer, working in sales and trading. Got a good look at what life will be like after college, which definitely gave me a better appreciation for playing college basketball. I'll take two-a-day practices over a desk job any day of the week.


MBB: Wow, sounds like a packed summer, must be nice to back with your team. Speaking of which how do the new guys look?

MK: The freshman are really transitioning well from the high school to college mindset. Practices in college are a lot more strenuous and physical. The freshman, over the course of the first two weeks, have already made some noticeable improvements. It is important that the upperclassmen help the freshmen throughout the season, especially when the "grind" of practices later in the season starts to wear them down mentally and physically. Josh Dunaway, despite a broken nose earlier in the week, has given great effort in practice. Nick Davis and Tim Donegan have also stepped up as a freshman and they should both give us a great contribution. We also have some other really solid contributors in Will Dickson, Mike Attanasio, Will Watkins, and John Thompson.

EZ: The incoming freshmen are going to provide great depth for us this year. In my four years here, I don't think we've had a team with this many talented players, who at the same time have the right attitude about accepting their roles on the team. With so many new guys it's certainly a process to get everyone on the page, but practices so far have been competitive and efficient. Hopefully the days of only 9 guys suiting up are officially behind us.


MBB: In addition to those new faces, talk a bit about the new coaches on this years staff.

MK: We have two new coaches, Bill [Johnson] and Rob [DiBernardo]. Bill is a great coach because he was in our shoes last year so he has a great perspective on the inner workings of the team. Rob is also a tremendous coach. Rob brings great energy into every practice. Rob gets you to feel enthusiastic about whatever point he is commenting on. It is always exciting to hear what he has to say.

EZ: Rob's been a great addition to the staff. He brings incredible enthusiasm to practice everyday, which really picks up the energy of our practices. He's helped me a lot with my jump shot, and overall has done a great job of evaluating our individual tendencies and offering advice on them. After having Bill as a teammate, he's done a great job of adjusting to a coach's role. He's established a great relationship with the freshmen, as he's someone who's had a lot of success in the program but is still giving back. Having Bill on the staff keeps a lot of the continuity that has been established the past few years.


MBB: Sounds like both coaches will really help out. With all the returning players and the solid incoming class, what are your expectations for the coming year?

MK: This year's team has all of the tools to be a championship team; we just need to stay healthy and clicking on all cylinders. The addition of Jamie will give us a great perimeter threat. Will Tashman has also made huge improvements since the end of last season. Last year we were on the wrong side of several upsets to finish the season. I think we can look to those games for motivation this year.

EZ: With the progress we've made as a program the past few years, we're poised to make a deep run into the tournament. We certainly feel like there is a lot of momentum behind our program, coming from our past successes, the incoming freshmen class, and the support we've had from the MIT community. We've got the necessary pieces, we've just gotta put it together come November, and be able to keep improving every day throughout the season.


MBB: Looks like the ceiling is pretty high on this year's team. People around the country also seem to be noticing, MIT was ranked for the first time in the D3Hoops.com preseason poll this year (#15). Are there any big games this year that you have circled on the calender, to solidify your place in the Top 25?

MK: There are always games that we look forward to but Coach will not be very happy unless I say that our next game is our most important one.

EZ: Emmanuel, first game of the year. After 4 weeks of beating up on each other in practice, it will be exciting to get out and play someone else. Emmanuel always comes ready to play.


MBB: Looks like everyone is looking forward to the first game of the year. Good luck on the season and hopefully we will have a chance to talk again once the season starts.

Note: MIT opens their season on November 16 against Emmanuel College in Rockwell Cage. Tip is set for 7:00 PM.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

MIT Ranked Preseason #15 by D3Hoops.com


D3Hoops.com has just released their 2010-2011 preseason rankings and MIT checks in at #15. MIT jumped onto the national scene two seasons ago, with their hot run to win the NEWMAC tournament championship, which was followed by their upset victory over Rhode Island College in the NCAA tournament. Last year, the Engineers continued that hot streak, winning 21 of their first 22 games against division III opponents, including their first 16 games against DIII foes. That success led to MIT being ranked 11 consecutive weeks in the D3Hoops.com Top 25, to as high as #8, before falling just out of the rankings in the final poll.

MIT returns nearly all their players from a team that went 22-5 and only had 2 regular season losses to division III opponents. Leading the way are returning starters Mitchell Kates (co-captain), Eric Zuk (co-captain), Will Tashman, and Noel Hollingsworth. Kates did an exemplary job leading the team from the point guard position. He led the NEWMAC in steals and assists, in addition to averaging over 13 points per game. He was named the D3Hoops.com Northeast region rookie of the year last season for his efforts. Will Tashman led the NEWMAC in FG% last season, in addition to filling up the stat sheet with over 9 points and 7 rebounds per game. Noel Hollingsworth led the NEWMAC in scoring and rebounding, in his first year with the Engineers, and was named NEWMAC player of the year. He was also named 2nd-team All-American by the NABC, as well as a Preseason All-American this season by the DIII News. Eric Zuk is the sole senior on this season's roster and will provide much needed experience with the young squad. In addition to those four, MIT gets back red-shirt sophomore Jamie Karraker, who missed last season with an injury. As a freshman, Karraker averaged 11 points per game, mainly behind strong shooting from 3 (42%). MIT also brings in a deep class of freshman to further bolster the squad.

MIT opens their season on November 16 against Emmanuel College in Rockwell Cage. Tip is set for 7:00 PM.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Fomer Player News: Alan Ho Ties the Knot

Former MIT guard Alan Ho ('08) was married on October 10, 2010 in a beautiful ceremony in Kapalua, Hawaii. Grace and Alan Ho just returned from their honeymoon and we wish them happiness in all their future endeavors!


Nice catch Alan!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Beaver Madness Kicks Off Season



Hundreds of Tech fans poured into Rockwell Cage last Friday night to get a glimpse of what's in store for the 2010-2011 MIT basketball season. The standing-room-only crowd was first entertained by musical groups, hip-hop dance performances, a team comedy skit, a mini-hoop dunk contest between fans, and an intense Knockout competition between students, Professors, and varsity coaches. After the women's intra-squad scrimmage, the men's team took the court with high-flying dunks, a barrage of 3s from well beyond the arc, and a glimpse into the talent the Engineers have this season.


(Volleyball Head Coach Paul Dill competes against
SID Mindy Brauer in the Skills Challenge)

(Nick Davis '14 from Omaha, Nebraska tries to get
past Utah native Will Watkins '14)

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Former MIT Assistant Gunnar Hagstrom Signs with Cyprus Team


Gunnar Hagstrom, who helped the Engineers capture their first NEWMAC regular season and tournament championships, as well as back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances during his tenure as assistant coach, has signed with the Lefkosia Devils in the North Cyprus Professional League. Lefkosia (also known as Nicosia) is the capital and largest city on the island of Cyprus, with a population of over 313,000. Hagstrom will be playing point guard for the Devils.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

DIII News Tabs MIT Preseason #18, MIT Basketball Schedule Released

The DIII News has released their annual preseason rankings, and MIT has made the list for the first time, checking in at #18. After finishing the year 22-5 last season, and only losing two players to graduation, MIT is poised to make another strong statement this season.

Click Here for Full Rankings

Also, MIT has released their 2010-2011 season schedule. MIT will again face Harvard during the winter break, and hope to improve on last year's performance.

2010-2011 MIT Basketball Schedule

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Are You Ready for Beaver Madness?

The MIT basketball programs are gearing up to hit the hardwood again, as the first day of practice is just over two weeks away. As a way of getting their fans involved, and increasing campus-wide enthusiasm about the programs, the men's and women's basketball teams will be hosting "Beaver Madness." The event will include free food, drinks, and t-shirt giveaways. Also featured will be an intra-squad men's scrimmage and an intra-squad women's scrimmage. Also scheduled to perform are the acapella group "Logarhythms" and the dance group "Ridonkulous."

Everyone is welcome, so grab your buddy, your girlfriend, or your calculator and head on down to Rockwell Cage on Friday, October 15th at 9 PM!!!

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Sporting News Tabs Hollingsworth Pre-Season All-American


After an impressive opening campaign, MIT center Noel Hollingsworth has been named a 2nd team pre-season Division III All-American by the Sporting News. Hollingsworth is coming off a season in which he led the NEWMAC in scoring (20.4 ppg), rebounding (9.0 rpg), and was second in FG% (56.0%, second only to teammate Will Tashman at 56.8%). Hollingsworth earned many post-season honors last season, including NEWMAC player of the year, 1st team All-NEWMAC, 1st team All-Northeast region (D3hoops), 1st team All-Northeast district (NABC), 1st team All-New England (ECAC), 2nd team All-American (NABC), honarable mention All-American (DIII News), and NEWMAC Academic All-Conference.

In addition to Hollingsworth's individual award, MIT was listed as a "possible breakthrough" team for 2010-2011.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

MIT Basketball Class of 2014

Introducing the newest members of the MIT basketball program, the class of 2014...

Friday, August 27, 2010

Interview with Former MIT Assistant Basketball Coach Gunnar Hagstrom

In his recent trip back to Boston, former MIT assistant basketball coach Gunnar Hagstrom took time out of his busy schedule to talk about what he has been up to since leaving the MIT basketball program prior to last season. In this clip, Gunnar talks about his experiences living abroad and his plans for next year. While abroad, Gunnar has also picked up some Greek and Turkish, and he drops some lines in this interview (see translation guide below).



Turkish translation guide:
tamam = okay
günaydın = good morning
teşekkürler = thanks
çok sağol = thank you very much

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Danny "Hollywood" Kanamori

During his MIT basketball career, former MIT point guard Danny Kanamori put on some great shows. As a freshman in 2001-02, Kanamori recorded the only triple-double in MIT history (12 points, 12 assists, and 10 rebounds against Springfield on 1/12/2002) and eventually finished his career second on the career assists list and fourth on the all-time steals and three-point percentage lists.

In addition to his basketball prowess, Kanamori has also had some acting highlights (off the court). He took a year break from MIT in 2004 to play a role in the movie "Coach Carter" as one of the players on the Richmond Oilers team, coached by Samuel L. Jackson. Kanamori parlayed that role into some other movie spots, such as the part of the "Drunk Jock" in "Bickford Schmeckler's Cool Ideas" (2006) and one of the leads in the 2007 release "Alien Games" (you can watch the full movie here). Kanamori's most recent work can be found in the advertising industry, along with another Boston basketball great: Rajon Rondo. In this spot for Red Bull, Kanamori plays some pickup games with Rondo and a few other players. If you are having trouble spotting Kanamori in the clip, just try looking for the player late on defense and flying at his man in a last chance effort to make a defensive play on the ball, and that will most likely be Danny.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Jimmy Bartolotta Sits Down with The Blog

It has been over a year since MIT made its surprise run to the second round of the NCAA tournament in 2009. The leader of that team, and MIT's all-time leading scorer, Jimmy Bartolotta has rode the success and media exposure from his senior season to a life he never envisioned entering MIT. The whirlwind began when MIT shocked the DIII world by winning their first ever NEWMAC tourney. After enjoying some success in the NCAA tournament, Bartolotta was awarded every major personal honor possible for a DIII basketball player, including D3hoops.com Player of the Year, NABC Player of the Year, ESPN/COSIDA Academic All-American of the Year, and the prestigious Jostens Award. Following the season, Bartolotta was invited to the site of the DI Final Four to compete in the NABC/Hershey's Senior All-Star Game. While there, Bartolotta was the media darling, receiving congratulations from Wisonsin head coach Bo Ryan, and being featured in articles in the New York Times, Boston Globe (written by Bob Ryan), the Denver Post, and ESPN, among others. With the media flurry, Bartolotta was approached by many international agents, finally signing with Mario Scotti of the Two Points agency. Following that, Bartolotta signed with Air Avellino of Italy's Serie A, joining former NBA and NCAA stars such as Dee Brown (Illinois), DeMarcus Nelson (Duke), and Chevon Troutman (Pittsburgh), as well as internationl stars such as Cenk Akyol (Turkey).

In this two-part interview, Bartolotta discusses his time in Italy, as well as his observations and expectations of the current MIT squad.

Part 1


Part 2


Check back to mitbasketball.blogspot.com for full coverage of MIT basketball.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

MIT in the News: Mitchell Kates Stands Out in Jersey Shore Summer League

Below is an article from APP.com, that is about New Jersey-native Mitchell Kates and his stellar play in this summer's Jersey Shore Basketball League.

Kates impressive for Seaview Jeep

Friday, May 28, 2010

Taiwan Player Blog: Day 5, Mitch Kates and Will Tashman

Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

All of the international teams embarked on a day tour of several famous locations in Taiwan. First, we ventured deep into the mountains to the Gold Ecological Park, an old gold mining town. There were numerous spectacular views, including one of a 35 foot solid copper statue of Lord Guan, a warlord in Asian history. We also were surprised to find the remnants of a miniature golf course from hundreds of years ago.Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

Next, we visited Juifen old street, a famous alley located in the mountain town of Ruifang. The street was filled with vendors selling various goods and foods. In particular, there was a distinct smell of 'sticky tofu' (that is actually what it is called) that really stung the nostrils. Third, we visited the memorial of Chiang Kai Shek, founder of Taiwan. We witnessed the changing of the guards ceremony. For dinner, we went to a very fancy seafood buffet. Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

Pat enjoyed some snail, while Noel stuck with the usual chicken fingers and fries. Jamie and Ben consumed a combined 6 pounds of desserts. Lastly, we took the world's fastest elevator to the top of the world's second highest building, Taipei 101. Even with a light fog at night, you could see for miles.Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

Tomorrow afternoon we will be departing for the USA.

Some of our best memories can be recalled from this catchy tune. It was played everywhere we went.

Enjoy:

Taiwan Player Blog: Day 4, Mitch Kates and Will Tashman

Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

We headed over to Kainan University early in the morning for an autograph session. We were extremely surprised to see a crowd of Kainan girls stretching for hundreds of meters. We spent the next hour signing posters and taking pictures with all of our new fans.

To warm up for the game, we played ping pong for an hour in the table tennis classroom. Jimmy Burke defeated Jamie Karraker in the finals of the tournament to take the crown.

Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

In the championship game, we played Taipei Physical Education College in front of another packed house. After hot shooting from the floor early on, TPEC led after the first couple minutes, but Noel's inside presence helped to silence the crowd. Great shooting from Billy Johnson and stifling defense from Patrick Sissman helped propel us to a commanding lead in the second half. The seniors finished their career on top, as we all got to cut down the nets after the game. After a trophy presentation, we got to take a couple hundred last minute photos with the fans.

We said goodbye to our gracious hosts at Kainan University and headed back to the hotel to prepare for the night market.

The night market in Taipei was filled with street vendors selling everything from sunglasses to squid, which Billy Bender ate happily. The less adventurous crowd went to KFC for some fine dining. Several of the players bought t-shirts and other small gifts.

-Mitch and Will

Thursday, May 27, 2010

MIT Wins Kainan Tournament

MIT is the champion of the 5th Annual Kainan University Invitational with a win over Taipei Physical Education College in the finals. The final score was 98-81.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Taiwan Player Blog: Day 3, Mitch Kates and Will Tashman

Image courtesy of Dawn Anderson

We didnt have a game until late afternoon today, so we got another chance to sleep in. Before we left for the game, some of the players got a chance to head down to the weight room for a quick lift.

The game was played in front of a packed house, as we played the host Kainan University. Unlike any college game, they play music in the background. DJ Adam, who announced for the Beijing Games, plays music ranging from Lady Gaga to Dr. Dre, and the entire crowd seems to know every song. He also commentates the game, and during one occasion joked about Billy Johnson going to college for 5 years. We won comfortably, putting us in the championship game against Taipei Physical Education College.

The MIT alumni association in Taiwan took the team out to dinner in Taipei for an extravagant 6 course meal. We went to a French restaurant called L'Idiot, and were served amazing food. The President of the Taiwan Alumni Association wished us luck in our championship game tomorrow. After the dinner, we headed back to the hotel and relaxed in the spa to keep our legs fresh.

Tomorrow should be a much more competitive game, so we will keep you posted.

-Will and Mitch