Opening week was not one to remember for the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Through Sunday, all 13 teams in the MAAC have a combined record of 9-19. There were still standout performances and teams worth highlighting for their accomplishments in the season’s opening week.
Team of the Week: Siena Saints
The Saints are currently undefeated, going 2-0 in the first week due to overtime victories against Brown on Nov. 4 and Bryant on Nov. 8.
Despite the team still struggling with problems from their exhibition game against Hobart, the team’s defense still carried them to wins, albeit much closer than the 75-53 win against a Division III school.
Choosing a team of the week was an easy call, with Siena standing out as one of only two undefeated teams in the MAAC. Unlike Merrimack, which holds a 1-0 record, Siena has played multiple games, making their unbeaten status even more impressive.
Player of the Week: Justice Shoats, Siena Guard
As expected, the best team also has the best player on it.
Shoats averaged 27 points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals per game in Siena’s first two games. He played a pivotal role in Siena’s undefeated record. He was also responsible for sealing the Saints’ 90-88 overtime victory against Bryant on Nov. 8, hitting two free throws to put the team up two points late in overtime.
Some players who came close to taking the “Player of the Week” award included Marist guard Josh Pascarelli, Canisius guard Paul McMillan IV, and Iona forward Clarence Rupert.
Game to Watch for Week 2: Fordham Rams vs Manhattan Jaspers on Friday, Nov. 15
In a matchup between two Bronx-based schools, each team enters with a completely different wave of momentum.
Fordham is 1-1 and is currently riding a wave of momentum after a 57-56 win over Seton Hall on Nov. 9.
Fordham’s star player is guard Jackie Johnson III, averaging 27 points, 2.5 rebounds and two assists per game. He hit the buzzer-beater to give the Rams the 57-56 victory over Seton Hall.
The Jaspers are trying to get back on track after a 30-point loss to Maryland on the road on Nov. 4. A complete demolition from the Terrapins, Manhattan will use a game against Mercy on Tuesday and the game against Fordham to try and get back on track.
One bright spot in their 30-point loss was guard Shaquil Bender, who contributed 12 points and six rebounds.
The amount of momentum on both sides, plus the proximity in location, will make this match a must-watch for fans.
