STATEN ISLAND, NY – The College of Staten Island men's basketball team will tip off its 2026-27 season at the 24th Annual Tournament of Heroes, where the Dolphins are set to face RV Jefferson University on Saturday evening.

2024-25 Meeting Recap:

The Dolphins and Rams met during the 2024-25 season in Philadelphia, PA, marking the second meeting in the all-time series. CSI held a 29-23 advantage at halftime but ultimately fell to Jefferson, 65-62. The Rams surged for 42 points in the second half, capitalizing on 12 points off turnovers while adding 28 points in the paint to secure the victory.

2026-27 Season Preview:

The Dolphins enter the new season with key returners Mitchell Wiggan and Andrew Benedict, alongside several newcomers looking to make an immediate impact. Among the newcomers, Rob Matos, a former ECC Rookie of the Year, returns to the conference after spending time at Colorado Christian University. Daouda Cisse and Shedrach Makanjuola also join the squad, bringing additional depth to the roster.

The incoming freshman class features Chris Albano, a Jacques Award winner, alongside Khaleeb Obieke and Liam Crowly, all of whom will look to make an impression in their first collegiate season.

Jefferson has already gotten its season underway, opening with a dominant 116-76 victory over Kutztown University earlier this week.

OUR HEROES

Terrance Aiken (1994-95)
Terrance Aiken was a member of the Men's Basketball Team for just one season in 1994-1995, and his teammates and coaches quickly came to know him for his outgoing personality and passion for technology.   His love of the game of basketball brought him to the College of Staten Island, and his love of technology led him to accept a position with Virtual Computer Technologies in 2001.  September 11^th was just his sixth day on the job, and Terrance lost his life in the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center.  He left behind a wife and three kids, but his infectious personality has not been forgotten by his friends and teammates in the many years that have gone by since his tragic passing.

Scott Davidson (1986-89)
Scott Davidson spent four years with the Dolphins from 1986-1989, and on the court, he was known for his scrappy play and intensity combined with a willingness to do whatever it took to win.  However, those who knew him off the court recalled a playful demeanor that would surprise those who only knew him as an athlete.  Scott possessed a deep care for others which led him to join the New York City Fire Department, and ultimately, to enter the World Trade Center on September 11^th.  Demonstrating selflessness in the face of immense tragedy, Scott perished on 9/11 leaving behind a wife and two kids.  His energy and willingness to sacrifice for the betterment of the team was apparent on the court as a player, but his act of heroism on 9/11 will be honored at this year's Tournament of Heroes.



Tom Hannafin (1983-87)
Tom Hannafin was a four-year standout for the Dolphins from 1983-1987.  He was a dynamic, record-setting two way player that contributed to three championship teams.  Despite all of his athletic achievements, what his teammates remember most about him is his ability to bring them closer together as family.  Tom, who was a presence at the Sports & Recreation Center well beyond his playing days, often organized events which allowed former teammates to catch up with one another and reminisce about the past.  Driven by his care for others, Tom was always there for his teammates, and when called upon to be there for others on September 11, 2001, he entered the World Trade Center as a member of the New York City Fire Department.  He left behind two children and friends that remember him to this day for his ability to inspire growth in them as teammates and as people.