2025-26 CSI MEN'S BASKETBALL SEASON PREVIEW

11/13/2025 9:00:00 AM

The College of Staten Island men's basketball team is set to tip off its 2025-26 season at the Tournament of Heroes, taking place November 14–15 at the Sports and Recreation Center in Staten Island, NY. Over the past three seasons, as the Dolphins transitioned out of their division II provisional era, the program has consistently earned a spot in the ECC Postseason Tournament. Last year, the Dolphins advanced from the first round after defeating Roberts Wesleyan 81-75 to the semifinals before falling to top-seeded Daemen to close out their postseason run. The Dolphins led the conference last season in three-point field goals made per game, averaging 9.0. This year, the team returns eight players, including key contributors JJ Chestnut and Aaron Goldstein, while adding a senior transfer from Queens (NY) and four incoming freshmen. In the ECC Preseason Coaches' Poll, the Dolphins were ranked third with 54 points, trailing only Daemen and St. Thomas Aquinas College. Head Coach T.J. Tibbs enters his eighth season at the helm, supported by Associate Head Coach Kurt Manesy and assistants Orin McKay Jr., Ashley Lambert, Khalil Shorter, and the newest addition to the staff, former CSI guard Justin Zieris.

The 23rd Annual Tournament of Heroes Schedule is Below:

Friday, November 14, 2025