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Far from ideal, of course, is a once-thriving team closing its regular season with a losing streak. Among the concerns a slump creates at this time is how it might impact the psyche of group just getting accustomed to success.
And that, perhaps, is more significant than the standings.
“They’re human, and they’re young,” coach John Dunne said of his Marist University men’s basketball team potentially losing confidence during a four-game slide. “But the reality is, we’re the same team that won 20 games. It’s important that we remember that.”
Marist’s Elijah Lewis goes for a jump shot over Merrimack’s Bryan Etumnu during the game on March 6, 2025.
Indeed, the Red Foxes (20-9) enjoyed their winningest season since 2006-07, turning heads and enthusing a local fanbase that had longed to brag. That early success even permitted some to look ahead and dream as big as a run to the NCAA tournament. It was within reason.
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Because this is the team that won nine of its first 10 conference games, including beating defending Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference champion Saint Peter’s and runner-up Fairfield back-to-back.
But it’s also a team in search of answers now as it readies for the MAAC tournament.
Marist, despite its struggles down the stretch, finished 13-7 in the conference and secured the third seed. They received a bye to the quarterfinals and will face No. 6 Mount St. Mary’s at 8:30 p.m. Thursday at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.
Marist’s Josh Pascarelli is guarded by Merrimack’s Adam Clark during the game on March 6, 2025.
The Red Foxes began turning the corner last season, posting a winning record for the first time since 2008, reaching the MAAC semifinals and offering Fairfield a legitimate challenge. They continued to make strides this winter, led by star sophomore Josh Pascarelli, who became the first Marist men’s basketball player to earn all-MAAC first-team selection since Jared…
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Author : Poughkeepsie Journal
Publish date : 2025-03-12 12:05:00
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