"Forever Saints": an FBCB story
 

Hi again, everyone.

I'm Graham, and I've always loved stories. I enjoy telling them, hearing them, reading them, and writing them. That's why I've had so much fun on this forum, both as a reader and as a writer.

I've come back to create a story based on my favorite game, Fast Break College Basketball. That's nothing new for me; I've written up one long FBCB dynasty here, and I've started a couple shorter ones, too. Those stories never amounted to much because I became bored with them. They weren't enough different from what I did before to hold my attention for long.

This time, I'm trying something different. I've done some world-building here, inventing a corner of the college basketball universe in which my story will take place: a fictional town with a fictional college and its basketball team.

I want to create a story that remains rooted in what takes place in my FBCB game, but one that brings more of the setting to life. My "human coach" will, of course, be the main character, but we'll also meet the people who are important to him along the way. If I tell the story well, we will get to know the campus where he coaches, and the town in which he lives. You'll see stats and records and the elements that are part of most dynasty stories, but you'll read about other things, too.

I understand that this kind of story might not appeal to some of you. If you don't like Hallmark movies, scroll to the next box score or season summary. If you're like the guy I went to school with who wished Rudy had ended with the title character getting hurt, you'll definitely want to find another story.

But I'm in the mood to tell a story that at least has the potential to feel good. My main character might not end up winning many games. He might even lose his job...but that might be a compelling story, too. If I can create characters I have fun writing about--and ones you'll have fun reading about and pulling for, I'll be happy.

I hope some of you will come along for the ride. I'm excited about getting started.

I've already written quite a few of the world-setting posts, so they'll come along in fairly rapid succession.

Welcome to Elmridge
 

Our story is set in the (fictional) town of Elmridge, Pennsylvania.

Perched amid the gently rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania, Elmridge is a venerable small town with a rich history dating back to its founding in the early 1870s. Originally established as a stop along a key regional railroad line, Elmridge quickly grew from a modest farming settlement into a bustling hub of trade, light industry, and culture. Today, its historic charm is unmistakable, with cobblestone streets, preserved Victorian-era buildings, and a strong sense of tradition woven into daily life.

Elmridge’s roughly 12,000 residents live in a community deeply connected to its past. The town center is anchored by a broad, tree-lined Main Street paved with brick and flanked by stately 19th-century storefronts. Ornate wrought-iron balconies, gas-lit street lamps, and detailed cornices showcase the town’s Victorian heritage.

The old railroad line that founded Elmridge still serves the town via a small station, now refurbished with Victorian-era details like ironwork benches and gaslight-style lamps. Modern commuter rail connects residents to Philadelphia and beyond, balancing Elmridge’s historic ambiance with contemporary convenience.

Elmridge Creek still meanders through town, crossed by several stone arch bridges constructed during the late 19th century. These bridges remain functional and are lovingly maintained, alongside a network of narrow alleys and walking paths that echo the town’s early days.

Thomas E. Callahan and the founding of St. Michael's College
 

Thomas Edward Callahan was born in 1838, the third son of a large Irish immigrant family in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood. Like many men his age, Callahan served his country in the Civil War. He enlisted with the 69th Pennsylvania Infantry, rising to the rank of captain; he was commended for his bravery at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Three years after the war's end, Callahan married Margaret O'Leary, whose father owned a successful shipping and import business. Callahan trained as a lawyer and enjoyed considerable success, but he found himself increasingly drawn to his faith and community service. In the late 1870s, he left his law practice to devote his life and fortune to Catholic education and charitable work in the Philadelphia suburbs.

A man of deep humility and conviction, Callahan believed that Catholic youth needed a place that not only taught academic rigor but also instilled a sense of moral vigilance and communal responsibility—values embodied by St. Michael the Archangel. When St. Michael’s College was founded in 1888 as a small seminary, the Callahans became its most generous and influential benefactor.

Their most famous gift was the funding of the Sentinel Tower, intended as a physical and spiritual beacon to guide and protect students. Callahan's letters and speeches often referenced the tower as a symbol of “watchfulness in faith and knowledge.”

Callahan died in 1901, living long enough to see St. Michael's establish a firm footing from which it could grow.

Thomas E. Callahan's legacy remains alive as the college has grown.

• The Callahan Fund continues to support scholarships and campus maintenance.
• His personal motto, inscribed on a plaque in the tower’s base, reads: “Vigilance is the soul’s shield; knowledge, its sword.”
• Every year on Callahan Day (October 29), the college honors his memory with a lecture on ethics and leadership.
• The college chapel’s stained glass includes a panel depicting Callahan handing a lantern to a young seminarian—a symbol of passing the light of faith and learning.
• The Sentinel Tower’s lantern room is officially named the Callahan Lantern.

So, too, has the legacy of Margaret O'Leary Callahan persevered.

• She was instrumental in founding the St. Michael’s Alumnae Women’s Guild, which provided scholarships and hosted cultural events.
  
• She championed the construction of the college’s women’s dormitory and chapel annex, expanding opportunities for female students.
  
• She advocated for Catholic education for girls in the region, helping to establish feeder schools and partnerships.
  
• A stained-glass window in the college’s main chapel honors her, depicting St. Margaret of Antioch as a nod to her name and strength.
  
• After her death in 1910, the college created the Margaret O’Leary Callahan Endowment Fund for student aid and campus beautification.

St. Michael's College Today
 

In Veritate Lux

Founded not quite two decades after the town itself, St. Michael’s College grew from a small Catholic seminary into a respected liberal arts institution. Its original buildings, constructed in a blend of Gothic Revival and Romanesque styles, remain focal points of the campus. The signature chapel, with its soaring spires and intricate stained-glass windows depicting saints and local history, dates to 1897.

The college expanded gradually through the 20th century, but it retains the air of a storied institution where tradition meets scholarship. The campus quadrangles are surrounded by mature elms and maples, some planted by the college’s first students more than a century ago.

Some of the most notable campus buildings include:

Callahan Hall (Administration & Philosophy)
Named for Thomas Callahan, the college’s early benefactor. This stately stone building was the original structure on campus, completed in 1888. Its Sentinel Tower and stained-glass clerestory dominate the quad. Callahan Hall still houses the Office of the President, the Department of Philosophy, and the Callahan Seminar Room, a vaulted chamber used for senior orals and guest lectures.

O’Leary Library (Library & Archives)
Named for the family of Margaret O’Leary Callahan. A Gothic Revival structure with groin-vaulted reading halls and clerestory windows, the O’Leary Library houses the college archives, the O’Leary Rare Book Room, and the Sisters of Charity Reading Room. Students love the deep leather chairs and creaky floors.

College Chapel
Consecrated in 1897. Known for its mosaic apse of the Virgin enthroned and its resonant bell, “Immaculata.” The Chapel hosts daily Mass, weddings, vigils, and graduation. St. Michael the Archangel appears in stained glass above the high altar, sword raised in defense of truth. Other windows depict Thomas and Margaret Callahan, and other revered figures from the College's early days.

Margaret Hall (Humanities and Women’s Studies)
Originally the women’s dormitory, now home to History, Religious Studies, Women’s & Gender Studies, and the Margaret Center for Civil Discourse. Its inner courtyard is called the “Garden of Wisdom.”

St. Joseph’s Quad (Residential Life)
A four-dorm complex built in the 1980s, arranged around a grassy commons with a central statue of St. Joseph the Worker. Dorms include:
Kolbe Hall (First-year men)
Seton Hall (First-year women)
DeSales Hall (Upperclassmen)
Lourdes House (Honors housing)

Reilly Commons (Student Union & Activities)
Named after longtime coach and student advocate Fr. James Reilly, this is the beating heart of student life. Contains the campus coffee shop (The Lantern), student offices, mailroom, commuter lounge, and the WSMC campus radio station. The Great Room hosts open mics, dances, and student debates.

The Cloister Walk (Walkway and Social Space)
This elegant, columned arcade connects O’Leary Library to the chapel. Lined with ivy and lanterns, it’s a quiet study spot by day and a romantic, music-filled passage at night. Students often chalk quotes or prayers on the flagstones.

O’Shaughnessy Center for the Arts
Named for a patron who endowed the college’s visual arts program in the 1960s. Contains large studio spaces, a small recital hall, and The Nave — a contemporary gallery that features student work, faculty shows, and traveling exhibitions.

St. Margaret’s Hall of Science
A sleek brick and glass building completed in 1991, housing Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Physics. Its rooftop greenhouse supports ecological research, and the east wing holds a state-of-the-art anatomy lab.

The Refectory (Dining Commons)
A high-ceilinged hall with wood trusses and stained glass. Students eat at long tables, and it’s known for its weekend brunches, Christmas formal dinner, and occasional surprise meals cooked by faculty. The Refectory balcony often hosts string quartets or student choirs.

O’Connell House (Campus Ministry & Retreat Center)
Once a faculty residence, now the home of Campus Ministry and spiritual life programs. Known for its warm hearth, soup nights, and occasionally, informal theology talks.

The Pavilion: Home of the Saints
 

St. Michael's plays their home games at The Pavilion, which opened for the 1932/33 season. The official capacity of The Pavilion is 4338 spectators, and this number is the announced attendance for every Saints home contest.

Architectural Style: Collegiate Gothic with Romanesque touches — featuring arched timber trusses, clerestory windows that flood the court with golden afternoon light, and wrought-iron lanterns suspended from vaulted wooden beams. The entire building is clad in warm sandstone with limestone accents.

Building Features:
“The Nave” Court:
The central hardwood court is affectionately called “The Nave” due to the building’s chapel-like proportions and echoed acoustics. Polished maple floorboards are laid in a chevron pattern, and the boundary lines are hand-painted in navy and gold.

Clerestory Windows:
A ring of high, stained-glass windows surrounds the upper walls of the pavilion. Each window represents a virtue — Fortitude, Temperance, Charity, Justice — and at sunset, amber light spills over the court during late practices and warm-up sessions, adding to the mystique of the building.

The Gallery:
Wooden bleachers, lovingly maintained, run up either side. The west end is home to the student section, which is invariably filled by raucuous, spirited St. Michael's men and women. At the east end, a modest organ loft is occasionally used by the pep band on feast days and homecoming.

The Saints' Hallway:
A corridor beneath the stands serves as a walk of honor, lined with portraits of all-time greats, team chaplains, and relics from the Saints' most historic games. It includes hand-lettered box scores and framed varsity letters from decades past.

Coach Reilly’s Office:
A warm, wood-paneled space tucked behind the bleachers, filled with old game balls, family photos, and the smell of coffee. No longer an active office, it retains the atmosphere created by the Saints' legendary coach, who retired in 1958.

Saints' Locker Room:
Stone-tiled floors, recently upgraded lockers, and a mural of St. Sebastian over the doorway. The locker room prayer — “Protect us in battle, Lord. Make us humble in victory and faithful in defeat” — is painted above the doorway.

Around Town
 

Let's visit the town of Elmridge, making stops at the places most important to the lives of the College community.

Neighborhoods and Surrounding Areas
Elmwood Heights: This neighborhood features elegant Victorian and Colonial Revival homes built by prosperous merchants and railroad officials during Elmridge’s boom years in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many houses still boast original woodwork, stained glass, and wrap-around porches. Elmwood Heights is known for its mature tree canopy and quiet, winding streets.


Riverside District: Once home to small factories and warehouses serving the railroad, Riverside has evolved into a mixed-use area with preserved brick industrial buildings converted into lofts and art studios. The district’s narrow cobblestone streets and iron fire escapes tell stories of the town’s working-class roots.


St. Michael’s Village: Near the college, this district grew up around boarding houses and rental homes for students and faculty in the early 1900s. Many buildings retain their historic clapboard siding and simple, functional design, while local eateries and cafes offer modern comforts amid the classic architecture.


Old Town Elmridge: The oldest section of town, Old Town is a living museum of Elmridge’s origins. The 1873 Town Hall stands proudly in the square, its clock tower still chiming the hour. The district hosts an annual Founders Day celebration, complete with period costumes, horse-drawn carriage rides, and craft demonstrations.


Popular Businesses Around St. Michael’s College

1. The Elm & Ink Bookshop
A cozy, independent bookstore just a short walk from campus, Elm & Ink is a beloved hangout for St. Michael’s students and professors. The shop specializes in classic literature, philosophy, and theology, with a strong selection of both new releases and rare vintage volumes. Frequent poetry readings, book clubs, and guest lectures are hosted in its backroom. The scent of aged paper and freshly brewed coffee makes it a perfect study retreat.

2. The Cloister Café
Located in a restored 19th-century carriage house, The Cloister Café serves artisan coffee, herbal teas, and locally sourced pastries. It’s a favorite spot for morning classes, informal faculty meetings, and late-night study sessions. The café’s interior features stained glass windows and wooden beams, echoing the collegiate gothic aesthetic of St. Michael’s campus.

3. O’Malley’s Tavern
A traditional Irish pub with dark wood interiors, brass fixtures, and a roaring fireplace, O’Malley’s is the go-to place for game-day celebrations, casual dinners, and live folk music nights. Run by a family with roots in Elmridge since the 1920s, it has a warm, welcoming atmosphere where alumni and locals mingle easily. Their famous shepherd’s pie and stout on tap are campus favorites.

4. The Scholar’s Nook
A stationary and academic supply store catering specifically to the needs of St. Michael’s students and faculty. It offers fine writing instruments, journals, art supplies, and a small collection of academic apparel. The owner, a retired professor, is known for personalized recommendations and a quiet reading corner stocked with classic texts.

5. The Green Elm Apothecary
This herbal shop and wellness center blends old-world remedies with modern holistic health practices. They sell locally grown herbs, tinctures, teas, and handcrafted soaps. Many students and faculty visit for stress relief products, especially during finals, and the apothecary hosts occasional workshops on herbal medicine and mindfulness.

6. Marigold & Vine Florist
A quaint flower shop near campus, known for its vintage-style arrangements and seasonal bouquets. Marigold & Vine decorates campus events, dorms, and faculty offices, often collaborating with the college for formal dances and ceremonies. The florist’s owner, a former art student, incorporates wildflowers and native plants into all designs.

7. The Scholar’s Table
A small, family-owned bistro specializing in farm-to-table fare with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Open for brunch and dinner, it’s popular for weekend meetups and post-lecture discussions. The menu changes seasonally and features hearty soups, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, with a warm, rustic ambiance.

8. Del Vecchio's
Davide Del Vecchio served his first sandwich to a St. Michael's student in 1922. His descendants still offer pizza, pasta, and sandwiches to the Saints community. A DelVecchio's hoagie is the traditional pre-game meal for Saints basketball fans.

9. Campus Threads
A clothing and gift shop offering St. Michael’s College apparel, from classic letterman jackets to cozy scarves and tote bags. They also stock vintage-inspired accessories and handmade crafts by local artisans. The shop is a must-visit for visiting families and alumni picking up memorabilia.

The story begins...


Recruiting Profile: Toby Whittaker

Full Name: Tobias Edward "Toby" Whittaker
Graduation Year: 1992
High School: St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, Alexandria, VA
Position: Point Guard
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 170 lbs
College Commitment: St. Michael’s College (PA) – Class of 1996
Intended Majors: Philosophy & Political Science
Recruiting Rankings: ⭐⭐⭐ #301 nationally by FBCB Scouting Service

Toby was a three-year starters for the SSSA varsity, a team captain during his junior and senior years. Toby was known across the Interstate Athletic Conference (IAC) as one of the smartest and most unselfish point guards in the D.C. metro area. His command of the offense, court awareness, and leadership under pressure earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike. Though not the flashiest player on the court, he was the most dependable—running the floor like an extension of the coaching staff.

As a senior, Toby averaged 14.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 7.1 APG, and maintained a 3.2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio. He made nearly 47% of his field goal attempts, including 41% from distance, and hit 83% of his free throws.

His basketball honors list was impressive:

• All-IAC First Team (1992)
• All-Met Honorable Mention (Washington Post)
• SSSA Athlete-Scholar of the Year (1992)
• MVP, Sleepy Thompson Tournament (December 1991)
• McNamara Award, for Leadership in Athletics & Academics

Coach's Commentary
“Toby is the rare kind of player who makes everyone around him better. He sees the floor like a coach and approaches the game—and life—with humility and integrity.”
— Coach Ned Chapman, SSSA Varsity Basketball


Toby was also a fine high school soccer player. His quickness and court vision translated well to the pitch, where he played as a box-to-box midfielder—balancing offense and defense with smart passing and stamina. During spring seasons, Toby ran the 400m and participated in the 4x400m relay for SSSA's track team. Though not a top-level sprinter–his personal best was just under 52 seconds for 400m–he was respected for his dedication and team spirit. Toby also enjoyed casual tennis matches with friends, appreciating the mental focus and hand-eye coordination tennis required.

Toby graduated in June 1992 with a 3.93 GPA, earning High Honors. Off the court, he was involved in Student Council, serving as vice president as a senior. He was an active volunteer, especially enjoying working with youth sports camps and tutoring younger students at his school. Toby was also involved with the campus ministry, attending retreats and serving as a peer leader during sophomore year. His faith was important to him, grounding his decisions and goals.

Toby’s diverse activities contributed to his reputation as a disciplined, compassionate, and intellectually curious student-athlete—qualities that made him a natural leader both on and off the court.

Toby's Freshman Season: 1992/93

Saints coach George Sarver immediately made Toby a fixture in the starting lineup. The 91/92 Saints had won the Centennial Conference tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament. Toby had the unenviable task of succeeding Thomas Drury, the Saints' all-time leading scorer, and while he was not quite Drury's equal, he demonstrated his ability to adapt to the demands of college basketball.

Moving between point guard and shooting guard, Toby averaged 9.0 PPG and 2.0 APG. He proved to be a very good rebounder for a 6'2" guard, pulling in 3.2 RPG. Toby served as the team's third option behind high-scoring sophomores Rickie Parker and John Theisen.

Toby's contributions were enough to earn him a spot on the Centennial Conference's All-Freshman Team and its Freshman of the Year Award. But the Saints suffered a reversal of fortune, finishing with a 13-19 record.


Toby's Sophomore Season: 1993/94
With their young core returning, the Saints had every reason to expect a better season in 93/94. The addition of Harold Toombs, a dynamic guard from nearby York, PA, gave Saints Nation even more hope.

That hope was largely realized, as Sarver guided his team to a 18-13 mark that included a 10-4 conference record. Four Saints earned spots on the first All-Conference Team: Parker, Theisen, Toombs...and Whittaker.

Toby shifted to shooting guard to accommodate talented freshman Toombs. He averaged 9.5 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, and just over a steal per game. Rickie Parker was named the league POY, and Toombs its FOY.

The Saints' Achilles heel was their team defense. They allowed their opponents to score over 72 points a game and knock down 39 percent of their threes.


Toby's Junior Season: 1994/95

Coach Sarver's Saints took another step forward in 94/95.

Their season began with an upset victory in the Anaheim Invitational. The Saints entered the tourney as the seventh seed in the eight-team bracket. They defeated St. Bonaventure and East Carolina by one point each, with Toby hitting a three-pointer with five seconds remaining against the Bonnies. The Saints' four-point victory over Georgia Tech in the championship game felt comfortable by comparison.

The Saints kept winning throughout the season, posting a 12-2 conference record to win the league, and completing the triple with a Centennial Conference tournament victory that earned them a ticket to the Big Dance. Iowa ended the Saints' season in the first round, but the student body nevertheless welcomed them back to campus with a joyful celebration.

Rickie Parker ended his illustrious career by repeating as Centennial Player of the Year. His classmate, John Theisen, joined him on the all-league first team. So, too, did Toby, earning his second straight selection.

Toby established new career highs in scoring (11.1 PPG), rebounding (4.1 RPG), and assisting (3.7 APG).


Toby's Senior Season: 1995/96

Coaches who achieve success with small programs are often invited to try their luck and skills with larger ones. George Sarver's departure for Niagara in the spring of 1995, therefore, wasn't a surprise, but for Toby, it was a disappointment. The new Saints coach, Charles Toomer, depended heavily on Toby to build his relationships with his team.

There were three first team All-Centennial players on the 95/96 Saints, but this was Toby Whittaker's team. The senior captain averaged 15.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.3 APG, and 1.5 SPG. Toby joined juniors Harold Toombs and Sid Kobayashi on the all-conference team; it was Toby's third consecutive selection.

But there was a greater honor yet to come. Toby was named Centennial Conference Player of the Year.

The Saints went 20-12, 9-5 in league play, and earned a spot in the NIT field. They exited with a first-round loss to Wake Forest, in what was Toby's final collegiate game.



Toby finished his St. Michael's career with career totals of 1473 points (11.4 PPG), 502 rebounds (3.9 RPG), 392 assists (3.0 APG), and 142 steals (1.1 APG). He shot .872 from the free throw line (362/415) and .418 from three-point range (215/514). Durable and reliable, Toby never missed a game in his four varsity seasons, starting a total of 129 contests. The Saints' record in these games was 74-55.

Toby was not St. Michael's greatest player ever. That honor probably belongs to Jeffrey Simons, a talented center who was a first-team All American in 1989/90 and a two-time Centennial Player of the Year. Toby's teammate, Rickie Parker, was also named conference POY twice. However, it wouldn't be unreasonable to choose Toby for an all-time Saints starting five. And few players had been as widely loved and respected as Toby was by the time his career came to an end.


* I began playing this dynasty in 1960, so some history had been established before Toby entered the story.

Toby's years as an undergraduate at St. Michael's were highlighted by much more than his on-court exploits. It's time to meet someone very special, with help from my daughter, who has taken quite an interest in this story.


When Claire Dempsey first stepped onto the campus of St. Michael’s College in August of 1992, she felt a quiet certainty that she’d found someplace special. It wasn’t just the old stone buildings with ivy curling up their sides or the soft hush of the Cloister walk, but something gentler — a feeling that life might open up here in a way it hadn’t before. She arrived from Pittsford, New York, eager but a little unsure. She’d loved art for as long as she could remember and had packed her sketchbooks alongside her books, but wasn’t yet convinced she belonged among students who already seemed to know exactly what they wanted.

She met Toby Whittaker in her first-year philosophy seminar. At first, she mostly noticed his posture — attentive, upright, never showy — and then his voice, low and deliberate, when he spoke in class. He didn’t speak often, but when he did, she listened. He had a way of cutting to the heart of things. They partnered up for a class discussion on justice in The Republic, and that conversation stretched long after the bell rang. Later that week, they bumped into each other in the O’Leary Library, and ended up studying side-by-side in near silence for two hours. Somehow, it felt companionable, not awkward. That was the beginning.

Friendship came easily with Toby. They would walk the campus loop together after their classes, talking about everything — books, music, childhoods, doubts. She liked that he didn’t try to impress her. He was steady, thoughtful, a little shy, and deeply kind. He liked her drawings. He listened closely. She fell for him slowly, then all at once. Their first real date was to an art film screening on campus, followed by hot chocolate at the Cloister Café. They kissed for the first time later that night under the old stone arch by the College Chapel, just as snow began to fall.

They grew into themselves side by side. Claire dove deeper into her art history major, taking on studio classes and getting close with Professor Eleanor Vega, who pushed her to pursue her ideas more boldly. Toby juggled basketball and dual majors in philosophy and political science; in the classroom, he bonded best with Professors Peter Cavanaugh and Emily Saad. Busy as they were, they always made time for their quiet rituals: late breakfasts at the student-run café, post-practice dinners where he’d arrive still smelling faintly of the gym, or nighttime sketch walks where she’d stop to draw and he’d read nearby. She loved seeing him in his element on the court — calm under pressure, generous with the ball, always playing with integrity. She cheered so loudly his teammates started calling her their sixth man.

There were hard stretches too — during her museum internship, when she missed him more than she expected, or when he got overwhelmed juggling a full course load and team captaincy. Once, during junior year, they had a long argument about their future that left her crying in the Cloister. But the next morning, there was a note tucked into her sketchbook: "Still with you. Always." That was who he was. Not flashy, not dramatic. Just with her, through it all.

By senior year, they felt like two halves of something solid. They still had their own worlds — she was consumed with her thesis and gallery work, he was driving the team to another 20-victory season — but they shared everything. They took a class together on art and ethics, stayed up late editing each other’s papers, and once spent an entire Sunday curled up on a blanket behind the art building reading aloud to each other. The night he hit the game-winning shot against Ursinus at The Pavilion, she ran to him without thinking, past fans and confetti and cameras, straight into his arms. Later, in the quiet of the Grotto, he whispered, “This is where it all started for me.”

Graduation felt like a threshold — joyful and bittersweet. She knew even then: their story wasn’t ending. It was deepening, unfolding. Years later, when they brought their own children back to that same campus, she could still feel the girl she’d been at 18 — full of questions, unsure of herself — and she smiled, remembering how Toby had taken her hand and never let go.



Claire, about the time she and Toby met (September 1992)


Claire took this one of Toby (November 1992)


Toby's favorite photo of Claire, from the week of their first date (November 1992)

St. Michael’s College — 112th Commencement
Sunday, May 19, 1996
Cloister Lawn, Elmridge, Pennsylvania
Procession: 10:00 AM | Ceremony: 10:30 AM


🎓 Candidates for the Degree of Bachelor of Arts

Claire Eleanor Margaret Dempsey
Pittsford, New York
Bachelor of Arts, Art History
Minor: Studio Art
Magna Cum Laude (3.89 GPA)

Phi Beta Kappa

Lambda Alpha (Art History Honor Society)
Margaret O’Leary Award for Excellence in the Arts (1996)
President, Art History Society
Student Art Exhibition Participant (1993–1996)
Senior Thesis: “Echoes of Light: American Impressionism and the New England Landscape”

Claire’s professors admired her keen visual sensitivity, careful writing, and the poetic insight she brought to art interpretation. Her paintings — luminous, emotionally rich — often reflected Elmridge’s natural beauty.



Tobias Edward Whittaker
Alexandria, Virginia
Bachelor of Arts, Philosophy and Political Science
Minor: Religion
Magna Cum Laude (3.81 GPA)

Phi Beta Kappa

Callahan Prize for Academic Achievement in the Humanities (1995, 1996)
St. Anselm Society for Philosophical Inquiry
Men’s Varsity Basketball, Four-Year Letterman
Senior Thesis: “Justice, Virtue, and the Self: A Comparative Study of Aristotle and Rawls”

Toby was known for his quiet, thoughtful presence in seminar rooms and his ability to connect big ideas with lived experience. Professors often remarked on his clarity of thought and grace under pressure — a quality that extended from the classroom to the court.

Both Toby and Claire earned master's degrees in their chosen fields.


🎓 Toby's Graduate Education
M.A. in Philosophy
University of Chicago
1996–1998

📚 Academic Focus:
Concentration: Moral and Political Philosophy, Philosophy of Religion, Classical Thought (especially Aristotle and Aquinas)

Master’s Thesis: “The Common Good and the Form of the Just Life: Recovering Civic Virtue in a Fragmented Age”

Advisors:
Dr. Charles M. Renner (Ethics and Ancient Philosophy)
Dr. Judith Levin (Philosophy of Religion)

Notable Seminars:
Aquinas and the Nature of Law
Virtue Ethics: Aristotle to Anscombe
Augustine’s Confessions and the Self
Politics and Piety in Early Modern Thought

🏛️ Additional Notes:
Served as a graduate teaching assistant in the Core Curriculum, leading undergraduate discussion sections on philosophy and civilization.

Actively involved in the Lumen Society, a graduate reading group dedicated to faith and moral reasoning in the modern world.

Attended lectures at the Divinity School and engaged in interdepartmental dialogues on ethics, theology, and public life.

🧭 Afterward:
Toby finished his master’s degree with distinction but chose not to pursue a doctorate, feeling a strong pull toward work that blended ideas with action. He returned to southeastern Pennsylvania, where he taught at a private school and coached varsity boys basketball. The mix of mentorship, leadership, and his lifelong love of the game was pointing him toward a coaching career.


🎓 Claire's Graduate Education:
M.A. in Art History
Institute of Fine Arts, New York University
1996–1998

📚 Focus & Achievements:
Concentration: American and European painting, 19th–20th centuries

Research Interests: American Impressionism, museum studies, women artists of the early modern period

Thesis Title: "Framing the Domestic: Mary Cassatt and the American Gaze"
Graduate Internship: Education & Curatorial departments at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Teaching Assistant: Undergraduate Art History survey courses at NYU
Graduated with distinction, May 1998

Claire’s time in graduate school helped her hone her voice as both a scholar and creative educator. While in New York, she also maintained a part-time studio practice, showing her work in a small group exhibition in Brooklyn in 1997.

Toby's Early Career

1998–2005: William Penn Charter School, Philadelphia
In 1998, shortly after Claire completed her master’s degree, Toby accepted a position at William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia. There, he taught Philosophy, Religious Studies, and later helped develop a senior ethics seminar. He also served as a basketball coach, working as JV head coach for two years before taking over the head varsity position. His style combined patient mentorship with intense preparation—earning him quiet respect from players, colleagues, and parents alike.

He and Claire moved to Philadelphia together and married in June 1999 at the College Chapel at St. Michael’s.


Claire in Philadelphia (1998–2005)
Claire began work in 1998 as a Museum Educator and Program Coordinator at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where she focused on community engagement and K–12 education initiatives. She co-led the museum’s push to redesign interpretive materials for younger audiences and was especially active in creating programming that connected art to contemporary social issues.

Her position allowed her to continue curating and lecturing while also developing teaching materials and public events. She gave gallery talks on 19th-century European art and participated in a city-wide symposium on "Women in the Arts: Education, Legacy, and Public Life."


2001–2005: Family and Teaching Life
The Whittakers welcomed their first child, Nora, in November 2001, followed by Grace in December 2003 and Eli in September 2005. During these years, Claire adjusted her work schedule to part-time, contributing to education programs at the Woodmere Art Museum and occasionally guest lecturing at local colleges, while Toby continued to teach and coach full-time.

The couple settled into the Mt. Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia, where their home often hosted former students, faculty friends, and fellow young families. On weekends, Toby led pickup games at the school gym, and Claire organized book clubs and museum outings with fellow educators and parents.


2005–2007: Transition to College Coaching
In 2005, Toby accepted a position as an assistant coach at Bucknell University, seeing it as the first step toward his long-held dream of coaching at the college level. The family relocated to Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, where Claire consulted for the Samek Art Museum and led an after-school program focused on integrating art into STEM education.

Two years later, when the head coaching job at St. Michael’s College opened in early 2007, Toby was a finalist almost immediately.

March 15, 2007 — Elmridge, Pennsylvania

A clear, brisk late-winter morning bathed the campus of St. Michael’s College in golden light as students trickled back from spring break. The bare trees lining the Green cast long shadows on the worn brick paths, and the chapel bell had just tolled ten when the news broke: Toby Whittaker, Class of 1996, would be returning to his alma mater — not as a visiting alumnus, but as the new head coach of the St. Michael’s men’s basketball team.

The announcement came first in a press release from the college’s athletic department, posted to the college website and hand-delivered to local outlets by a smiling student intern. Within an hour, word had spread across campus and town. At the Cloister Café, baristas exchanged knowing glances, students raised to-go cups in mock toasts, and a few upperclassmen who remembered watching old VHS highlights of Whittaker’s distinguished career whooped out loud.

Toby arrived just after noon for the press conference, stepping out of a dark blue SUV with his wife Claire beside him and their three children in tow — Nora, five; Grace, three; and Eli, a toddler bundled against the chill. Toby wore a navy St. Michael’s warmup jacket under his overcoat, the gold S stitched just over his heart.

The press conference was held in the newly renovated Callahan Hall Auditorium, but it still had the warm, creaky charm of the old days. Banners commemorating past championship seasons hung behind the podium. Athletic Director Diane Lundquist opened the event, her smile proud and broad as she described Toby’s legacy — not just the points he scored or games he led, but his leadership, character, and enduring connection to St. Michael’s.
When Toby stepped up to the microphone, the room quieted like a chapel.

“This place made me,” he began, voice calm but filled with quiet emotion. “I wore this jersey with pride as a player, and I’ll coach with the same pride. My heart is here. I know what it means to play in The Pavilion, to hear our names chanted from the Reilly Commons steps, to walk across campus after a tough loss and feel the town still behind us. I want our guys to feel that. Not just for four years. For life.”

Claire watched from the front row, her hand gently resting on Nora’s shoulder, tears caught in her lashes.

After the formalities, the Whittaker family wandered the campus, hand in hand. Claire pointed out old haunts to the girls, who marveled at the stone buildings and stopped to peek at the Grotto. Eli toddled ahead of his dad, carrying–and often dropping– a mini basketball someone from the team had slipped him.

Back at the arena, Toby greeted his players, already buzzing about playing for “Coach Whit.” He gathered them around midcourt, under the old wooden arches of the clerestory-lit gym. He looked each of the young men in the eye and spoke softly and earnestly. “This place matters. Let’s make it proud.”

By sundown, the news had rippled through Elmridge. At O’Malley’s Tavern, alumni were already toasting the hire. At Campus Threads, someone placed an order for fresh “St. Michael’s Basketball” hoodies. And that evening, in the quiet of their new home on Orchard Street, in the leafy Elmwood Heights neighborhood, Claire and Toby tucked the kids into bed. Later, as Claire relaxed in a hot bath, Toby sat in his office, surrounded by boxes, writing the first plans for the 2007/08 season on a yellow legal pad.

A new chapter had begun — not just for Toby, but for the college, the team, and a community ready to believe again.

Toby Whittaker inherited a program that might have needed a boost, but one that was far from ruin.

Toby’s predecessor, Christian Huckaby, had posted a 54-44 record in his three seasons, including a 22-win campaign in 2004/05 that earned the Saints a spot in the NIT field. However, Coach Huckaby couldn’t repeat those successes, and after a 15-18 record and a middle-of-the-pack finish in the Centennial League, the board decided to look elsewhere.

Coach Huckaby, an especially talented recruiter, decided to accept a position as an assistant coach at San Diego. One member of his staff, lead scout Barton Fee, decided to retire. Huckaby’s other two assistants expressed a desire to remain at St. Michael’s, and Toby was pleased to make that happen.

Charles Campbell would be Toby’s head recruiter. He impressed Toby with his steady presence, and he had clearly earned the respect of the players. A former power forward at Massachusetts, he had a knack for developing big men.

Charles, now age 42, met his future wife, Reneé, at UMass; she was now a pediatrician with a practice in Elmridge. Charles and Reneé had three children: Charlotte (13), Malcolm (9), and Talia (4).

"Coach Campbell has an incredible feel for people — not just talent, but character, fit, and potential," said Toby. "He builds relationships that last, and recruits trust him because he’s genuine. He doesn’t oversell — he tells them what St. Michael’s is really about, and that honesty resonates.”

Toby was also pleased to retain Carl Wilson as his associate head coach. As Toby put it, "Coach Wilson sees the game two steps ahead — especially on the defensive end. "He’s got a gift for teaching guys how to anticipate, how to rotate, how to communicate. Our defensive identity starts with him. He holds our team to a high standard, and the players respect him because he’s earned it, year after year."

Coach Wilson was a Texas native, but he made his way east to play at Bowdoin and attend graduate school at Temple, where he met and fell in love with Monica James. They married a year later, and both found jobs at Elmridge High School. Monica was still a guidance counselor there.

Their son, Jalen (16), was a standout two-sport athlete in basketball and track. Daughter Tessa (13) and son Micah (7) completed their family.

Claire was settling into life in Elmridge, enrolling Nora in kindergarten and Grace in preschool at St. Aloysius School and exploring opportunities in the local arts community. She began contributing part-time to the College Chapel’s art and archives committee, helping to curate a small exhibit in the Callahan Library on the history of sacred art on campus. She also made plans to teach a seminar course in art history as an adjunct at St. Michael’s, with plans to possibly expand her academic role in the years to come.

Meanwhile, her husband’s first important action at St. Michael’s was the hiring of assistant Ari Goldberg, who would head the Saints’ scouting efforts. The 29-year-old coach was a Davidson alumnus, and he came to St. Michael’s from Richmond, where he had worked in the basketball operations office.

Coach Goldberg brought with him his wife, Lila, and their two-year-old daughter Naomi. Lila Goldberg immediately bonded with Claire over their common interest in art; Lila majored in Studio Art at Davidson and worked as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator.

"Coach Goldberg has an incredible eye for detail," Toby said. "He’s meticulous, relentless, and totally locked in — the kind of coach every program needs if they want to stay a step ahead."

The Goldbergs found a cozy, second-floor apartment in the Woodmere neighborhood, within walking distance of St. Michael’s Village and its cafés. The Campbells and Wilsons already owned homes in Elmridge. Charles and his family lived in a brick Craftsman home near the Greenway along the creek, and Carl’s home was a sunny yellow Colonial a few blocks east of Old Town, near a lovely park.

Now that his staff was situated, Toby’s focus turned to the start of the summer recruiting season.

Here’s a summary of St. Michael’s basketball history from 1960/61 until Toby’s hiring in the spring of 2007.


Success was sporadic for the Saints for the first thirty or so years of my dynasty. Despite some remarkable stability in their coaching staff–Monty Reitz held the head coaching position for ten years beginning in 1967, and the Saints had only four coaches from 1960 to 1982–the team’s prestige was the same at the end of that run as it had been at the beginning.

The first “golden age” of St. Michael’s basketball arrived in the late 1980s and continued through the middle of the next decade. This run of success coincided with the careers of Jeffrey Simons, Rickie Parker, and Toby Whittaker himself. A “mini-dynasty” in the first years of the new century raised St. Michael’s prestige as high as it’s ever been. Both those successful runs included trips to the Sweet Sixteen, the only ones in Saints history.

Toby hoped to bring stability to the program’s leadership. The coach who recruited him, George Sarver, was the only one who stayed in Elmridge for as long as four years. Any player who took a redshirt, then, was on campus longer than his coach was.


Still, the Saints were the second-most successful program in Centennial Conference history, and those 12 conference championships meant 12 trips to the NCAA tournament: more than any other team in their league. Toby, therefore, wasn’t taking the wheel of a sinking ship.

June 2007

St. Michael’s had one scholarship available to offer to a player in the transfer portal. And Toby knew exactly what kind of player he wanted.

"We’re looking for a foundational piece," Toby said. "Ideally, a true big with size, toughness, and a few years of eligibility left—someone who can anchor us inside, not just for one season, but as we build. We don’t need flash. We need a presence. A guy who wants to grow with this program and help us establish our identity." There wasn't a true center on the St. Michael's roster.

There was such a player in the portal, and to Toby’s delight, he was interested in talking to him and his staff about coming to St. Michael’s.

Brenner Turnbull was legitimately seven feet tall, with a massive, muscular frame. He’d suffered a frightening leg injury in an automobile accident the summer before his senior year at Houston High School in the Memphis suburbs, and most coaches took him off their lists. Tulsa coach Tony Hulse continued to recruit him, however, and that’s where the three-star recruit decided to sign.

Then Coach Hulse announced he was leaving for SMU. His successor at Tulsa, Henry Brisson, wasn’t impressed with Brenner, whose game was very raw, especially offensively. The big man didn’t play a single minute of the 2006/07 season. Sad and lonely, he put his name into the transfer portal without a moment’s hesitation.

Toby and his staff brought Brenner to St. Michael’s. They watched him work out and, even more importantly, spent time talking to him.

"When I came to visit St. Michael’s, it just felt right," Turnbull recalled. "Coach Whittaker and the staff were real with me from the start—they laid out the vision, showed me how I’d fit, and didn’t sugarcoat the work ahead. I respect that. Walking around campus, meeting the team, seeing the Pavilion—it felt like a place where I could settle in, grow, and make an impact. I’m ready to get to work."

Brenner Turnbull became the first recruit of Toby Whittaker’s coaching career.

"Brenner brings exactly what we needed in the frontcourt," said assistant coach Ari Goldberg, who led the scouting on the 7-footer. "He’s a presence—he changes shots, owns the glass, and anchors the defense with a kind of poise that’s hard to teach. He’s not just tall; he’s tough, smart, and committed to doing the dirty work. Brenner is also an outstanding student. We’re thrilled to have him in the program."

The night Brenner signed, Claire picked up takeout from Del Vecchio’s—Toby had joked more than once that pasta helped him think better. On the kitchen table, she laid out a simple spread: rigatoni Bolognese, garlic knots, salad, and a modest chocolate cake she and the girls had baked earlier that afternoon. Claire and the girls joined Toby in a sparkling-water toast, while Eli lifted his sippy cup.

Claire made her husband laugh when she playfully suggested that their new player's name sounded like a prestigious law firm.

The evening's celebration was nothing flashy—just warmth, relief, and a sense that something was beginning to click.

Toby and his staff had three scholarships available to award during this recruiting cycle. The signing of Brenner Turnbull made the need for a big man a little less acute, but the Saints' roster still lacked size. At least one, if not two, of the offers should go to post players. There was also a need for a tall wing; all the Saints' most important perimeter players were 6'4" or shorter.

Perhaps most importantly, Toby wanted to make sure every player he recruited was a better-than average defender. Many of the Saints paid relatively little attention to what happened when they didn't have the ball. Even assistant Carl Wilson's talents as a defensive coach couldn't transform the Saints into a team that was difficult to score against.

Toby and his staff quickly identified a player who fit the team's needs perfectly. Jamir Douglas was a 6'10" center from nearby Cheltenham, PA. He was an irrepressible rebounder and a tenacious defender. His high school coaches praised his work ethic, and he was an outstanding student. A high three-star recruit, Jamir was precisely the kind of player Toby wanted at St. Michael's.

But players like this attract attention from many programs, and Jamir was no exception. To sign Jamir, St. Michael's would have to win a recruiting battle with some of the top teams in the East. And Toby was beginning to doubt his ability to win those battles. The fact his predecessor, Christian Huckaby, was known as a consummate recruiter who punched well above his weight didn't help.


SCENE: Early evening; late September 2007
Toby is in his small office in the athletic complex at St. Michael’s. The windows are cracked open, letting in the cooling air and the muffled sounds of practice on the soccer field. Papers, scouting reports, and old game film tapes are scattered across his desk. Claire knocks lightly on the open door, holding a paper cup of coffee. She's left the kids with Eryn, the teenage girl next door, their favorite babysitter.

CLAIRE (softly):
This seat taken?

TOBY (sighing, looking up):
Only by doubt and frustration. But I’d trade those for you any day.

CLAIRE (smiling as she walks in):
Coffee with milk and too much sugar. Emergency-grade comfort.

TOBY (accepting the cup):
You’re a good woman, Dempsey. Even if you don’t always respect coffee the way it deserves.

CLAIRE:
Desperate times. What's going on?

TOBY (leaning back):
Jamir Douglas. He was supposed to visit next weekend, but now he’s going to Villanova. That’s the second reschedule in three weeks. His coach says he’s still “interested,” but I can feel it slipping. He’s the kind of player we could build around. Smart. Grounded. Big presence in the paint.

CLAIRE (sitting across from him):
Toby… recruiting’s like dating in high school. If someone keeps bailing, you eventually stop waiting by the phone.

TOBY (chuckling tiredly):
I know. I just wanted to make a statement with this first class. Prove that we’re serious. That St. Michael’s is still a place where something real can grow. He’s not just good—he’s our kind of kid.

CLAIRE (gently):
And maybe he’ll come around. Or maybe someone else will walk through that gym door who’s better for this place in ways you can’t see yet. You’re not just selling wins, Toby. You’re offering them what this college gave us.

TOBY (quietly):
I just don’t want to fall behind before I’ve even started.

CLAIRE (reaching for his hand):
Then don’t look at it as falling behind. Look at it as starting from exactly where you are. You’re building something honest. That’s going to matter more to the right kid than whatever some other school throws at them.

TOBY (after a pause):
You always do this.

CLAIRE:
What?

TOBY:
Make it feel like it’s still possible.

CLAIRE (smiling):
Because it is. Now go home soon. You’ve got a team to believe in, and a daughter who wants you to read The Penderwicks for the third night in a row.

TOBY (standing):
All right. But I’m skipping the part where the rabbit gets loose again.

CLAIRE:
Deal. But only if you admit you cried a little when it got lost last time.

TOBY (grinning):
No comment. Let’s go.

They walk out together into the cool fall night, the leaves just beginning to turn on the oaks lining the quad.

November 11, 2007

Toby was guardedly optimistic after the first, intensive week of practice.



The team’s most important players would be the “B Team,” a group of three men whose surnames shared that initial: senior David Buffington, junior Newton Bruenig, and sophomore George Bergman.

Buffington looked more like a defensive end than a forward, and like a good edge rusher, he was surprisingly athletic for his size. He’d scored almost 1400 points in his first three years at St. Michael’s, but he was a high-volume, low-percentage shooter. Toby thought he would benefit greatly from improved shot selection.

Bruenig, like Buffington before him, had been the league’s Freshman of the Year. But he suffered a horrendous slump as a sophomore, making less than a third of his shots. His underlying skills looked good, however, so Toby thought he might bounce back. Like David, Newton had been a high three-star recruit, the kind of player St. Michael's didn't often manage to sign. Newton was also a superlative student.

Bergman was the team’s small forward, in the truest sense of the word. At 6’4” and 180 pounds, he was constantly matched against much bigger players. Strangely enough, he was better at post defense than he was at guarding on the perimeter. George was the team’s best outside shooter, with a smooth, fluid stroke. Still, only 41 percent of his shots had gone in last year. That mark was awfully low for a “best shooter.”

Alan Gurrola held a small advantage over Charles Clemmons in the contest for the starting point guard position. Both were sophomores; Alan had played much more than Charles the year before. They were similar players–good ballhandlers and passers, fair defenders–but Gurrola was a hair more talented.

Redshirt senior Andrew Fajardo rounded out the starting five. It was impossible not to pull for Andrew. He had paid his dues in the program for five years, finally establishing himself in the rotation last season. That would be the ideal role for Andrew, but the Saints’ lack of true bigs forced Toby to cast him as a starter. Andrew was very strong for his size and hit the boards willingly.

The most important frontcourt reserve–indeed, the only one Toby and his staff believed would be good for more than mop-up duty–was a walk-on from Germany named Rainer Neubauer. Rainer was strong and a good rebounder, but he was probably not as tall as his listed height of 6’7”. He had trouble defending the team’s only true big man, Brenner Turnbull.

Speaking of Brenner, he was turning out to be exactly the player Toby and his staff thought they were getting. He used his big frame to its best advantage: blocking shots, rebounding, and setting rugged screens. With assistant coach Charles Campbell’s help, Brenner was also developing a better offensive repertoire. “He would start for us if he were eligible,” Campbell admitted privately.

Junior Victor Stango and freshman Randolph Querry were especially valuable squad players, because, as Toby pointed out, “they’re the best all-around defenders we have.” At the very least, Victor and Randolph would challenge the B Team in practice.

Toby knew this edition of the Saints would struggle to stop opponents from scoring. They would have to count on the B Team to pour in enough points to win, and unless they started making more of their shots, that wasn’t going to happen.

Coach Ari Goldberg’s analysis of the data they acquired at practice revealed some positive signs: Buffington was getting into better positions for scoring, and Bergman, especially, was shooting much better. Were these gains real, the kind that would show up once the games began?

Toby and his staff were about to find out.

Toby Whittaker’s office sits in the recently renovated east wing of The Pavilion, a sleek but modest athletics facility nestled between the old stone library and the newer student wellness center at St. Michael’s College. The renovation preserved the character of the original 1930s architecture—arched windows, sturdy limestone walls—but modernized everything inside, giving coaches like Toby a clean, functional space to build something new.

The office itself isn’t large, but it’s filled with quiet purpose. A wide window behind his desk lets in generous morning light and offers a view of the main quad, where students pass between classes, frisbees arc over the grass, and the college bell tower chimes the hours.

The desk is a simple dark wood slab with clean lines, often tidy but never chaotic. Binders of scouting notes, manila folders with recruit profiles, and yellow legal pads filled with ideas and sketches for practice drills are usually spread across it. His laptop is open most hours of the day, often paused on Synergy game footage or a spreadsheet of potential recruits. There’s a pencil holder full of dry-erase markers for the big whiteboard on the far wall—half of which is covered in rotating practice plans, while the other half always seems to have a quote or question scribbled on it, in Claire’s looping cursive or sometimes one of the assistants’.

The room’s personality shows in the details:

• A framed photo of Toby and Claire at the old Grotto, one of their engagement photos, next to a shot of their kids in St. Michael’s gear on a game day. There's also a self-portrait of Claire, wearing Toby's St. Michael's letter jacket. It's the companion piece to the one she drew of Toby the week he was hired.
  
  
  
• A copy of The Inner Game of Basketball and a well-thumbed Epictetus reader on the shelf behind him.
  
• A team photo from Toby’s senior year hangs above a small couch that has already become a hangout spot for players dropping by to talk—or vent.
  
• A corkboard displays handwritten notes from alumni, a couple of scouting passes from big high school tournaments, and a child’s drawing labeled Go Coach Dad! with an enthusiastic stick figure slam-dunking over a dragon.

There's also a mini-fridge in the corner stocked with sports drinks, protein bars, and the occasional emergency ginger ale. Near the door hangs a framed clipping from the St. Michael’s Sentinel, the college paper, from March 2007: “Whittaker Returns Home to Lead Saints.”

The space reflects Toby himself: thoughtful, no-frills, grounded in history, but built to move forward. It’s a place where strategy is drawn up, hard conversations are had, and hopes for a new era of Saints basketball quietly take shape.

On the evening of November 18, 2007, Frank Calderone took his seat behind the public address microphone at The Pavilion, just as he had for every Saints home game–save three–since December 1981. Revered as “The Voice of the Pavilion,” Frank was a beloved fixture on campus and in the Elmridge community. Now in his late sixties, Frank had thick silver hair, combed neatly. His brown eyes sparkled behind wire-framed glasses.

That night, he welcomed the crowd as he always did, and introduced the lineup for the visitors from Wesleyan. Then, he took a deep breath, and the sounds of his smooth baritone filled the arena.

“And now…the starting lineup…for our St. Michael’s Saints!
“At guard: a 6’0” sophomore from Brooklyn, New York…number 12, Alan Gurrola…
“Also at guard: a 6’0” sophomore from Bethesda, Maryland…number 14, Newton Breunig…
“At forward: a 6’4” junior from Pennsauken, New Jersey…number 22, George Bergman…
“At center: a 6’7” senior from Westfield, Indiana…number zero, Andrew Fajardo…
“And at forward: a 6’7” senior from East Orange, New Jersey…number 43, David Buffington."

Each player rose from the bench as Frank intoned his name, in his classic, understated style.

Then, Frank took another long, deep breath, composing himself.

“The head coach of the Saints, in his first season…from St. Michael’s Class of 1996…Toby…Whittaker.”

Frank heard his voice catch ever so slightly on the word “Whittaker.” It wasn’t enough for anyone to mistake it for a stumble, but those who knew Frank could hear the emotion bleeding through.

Frank smiled as he recalled that moment. “When I called Toby’s name that night, it was like the walls themselves remembered him. The Pavilion just roared — not the usual cheer, but something deeper, like the whole place was saying ‘welcome home.’ I’ve announced thousands of names in this building, but that one… that one gave me chills.”

Toby smiled and lifted his hand to the crowd, acknowledging their welcome home. He caught Claire’s eye–she held Eli on her lap, with Nora and Grace seated on either side of her–and smiled warmly. Claire’s eyes shone proudly with tears.

“We cheered loud for Daddy,” Grace pointed out.

“We sure did,” Claire replied.

Wesleyan led, 38-35, at the half. The Saints had trouble containing Benton Gunn, who was named very appropriately for a player who specialized in shooting. Gunn fired home three triples in the game's first 20 minutes.

Toby believed in playing man-to-man defense. It was part of the DNA of the St. Michael's program, and he liked the way it made players accountable. "You've got to lock #4 down," Toby told Newton Bruenig at halftime. Bruenig was, by far, the best on-ball defender among the starters. "Make him work for every touch."

The adjustment worked. Gunn went 1-for-5 from three-point range in the second half. Meanwhile, the B Team took over the game. Bruening and George Bergman connected from distance. Andrew Buffington sliced Wesleyan's interior defense apart.

The crowd inside the Pavilion--which Frank announced once again as 4338--roared as he delivered the result.

"And our final score: St. Michael's 85, Wesleyan 75."

As a player, Toby had always waved to the student section at the end of a home game. Without thinking, he repeated this gesture tonight, and turned to offer the crowd behind the scorer's table the same salute. He found Claire and the kids again, and his smile brightened.

As he walked along the scorer's table, he offered a handshake to the man behind the mic. "Thank you, Mr. Calderone," he said with a smile.

"You're welcome, Coach. Call me Frank."

"Yes, Mr. Calderone." Toby winked.

Then Toby and his assistants joined the fifteen players and the four student managers, standing in front of the student section. They faced the crowd, arms linked, and sang the St. Michael's Alma Mater with them.

"Forever Saints, our bonds remain,
We lift to thee our dear refrain.
We honor thee, our cherished home,
St. Michael’s pride, forever known."

And so it began.

January 11, 2008


A weak winter sun struggled to peek through leaden clouds as Saints fans at the Cloister Café commented on their favorite team's pre-conference performance.

Marty “Stats” DeAngelis, retired math teacher, tapping a printout of the team's schedule with one finger:
“Nine and six, but we should be eleven and four if we could just beat teams like Vermont and Howard. You don’t lose to a 344 RPI team at home—no excuses. Still… Notre Dame in South Bend? That’s a statement.”

Janice Merriweather, retired history teacher who never misses an early-season tournament and actually flew to Hawaii for the games, finishing her third cup of java:
“That Maui trip was worth every mile. We took Saint Louis and Villanova to the wire, then gutted out a win over Oregon State. You could see the guys bonding out there — even in the losses, there was a toughness building. And hey, the sunsets didn’t hurt.”

Tasha O’Connell, junior Political Science major, stirring her latte:
“I’m just happy we’re winning more than we’re losing. I mean, we already doubled the excitement from last year. But we’ve gotta stop dropping those games we should win, like Vermont. Some consistency would be really helpful.”

Leo “The Voice” Mancuso, popular local entertainer and big Saints fan, sipping his Americano:
“We’re gritty. You can see Toby’s man-to-man starting to click. That Amherst win was all heart, all defense. If we can keep that energy, the rest of the conference better watch out.”

Doris Greenfield, alumna, Class of ’68, wrapping her hands around her mug:
“I like that they play smart basketball. It’s not just run-and-gun. They’re working for good shots. The boys look like they’re enjoying the game again—and that makes me happy. It feels different this year. Even in the losses, there’s a structure. They defend, they move the ball. And they’re not afraid to go into a place like South Bend and win.”

Shane Palmer, freshman, plans to major in Biology, perhaps too jazzed up on coffee:
"[Newton] Bruenig and [George] Bergman are back. They're both making what, 40 percent of their threes? And [David] Buffington is playing like an Alpha. The conference better watch out. I wonder if we've ever been undefeated in the league?"

By the time the Saints entered the Centennial Conference season, Toby and his staff had finished assembling their incoming recruiting class.

As Toby had feared, they missed out on Jamir Douglas. Jamir chose the prestige of Villanova over the chance to make an immediate impact at St. Michael’s. And because Jamir was the only player among the Top 100 to show any interest in the Saints, they had to adjust their sights downward. None of the three new Saints would arrive with nearly the same degree of hype.

Still, Toby had hit all the targets he and his staff had identified: two bigs and a wing, each of whom needed to be aware of the importance of defense.

Joe Greeley was the easiest of the three to sign. Joe was Delaware’s Mr. Basketball, an All-State power forward. He was going to require seasoning, but Toby and his staff believed he could develop into a useful rotation player who would guard his man and grab some rebounds. Joe was delighted with the opportunity to play for St. Michael’s, and there was a lot to be said for a kid who wanted to be there.

Sandy Fancher came from a small town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. He stood 6’10”, three inches taller than Greeley, and he was even more unpolished. But as Charles Campbell pointed out, he was more athletic than he seemed at first glance, and he was a hard worker. If Toby squinted hard enough, he could see Sandy developing into a rim-protecting big man.

Joe and Sandy both committed on Decision Day in November. It took two more months for the Saints to find a taker for their third offer, and his signing was quite a story.

He stood 6’7”, and he looked and moved like an athlete. He was quick enough to guard perimeter players, he was an impressive leaper, and while his motion could be smoother, a trained eye could see his potential as a shooter. But Matt Caruso had almost zero interest in playing Division I basketball.

Matt enjoyed basketball and he was good at it, but he was also an exceptionally good student. He envisioned himself at a small, selective liberal arts college that didn’t play big-time basketball. Division I coaches contacted him anyway, but Matt and his coaches quietly deflected their interest. Most scouting services dropped him from their rankings. FBCB didn’t, but they downgraded him to a three-star prospect with the caveat that he probably wouldn’t accept an offer. The son of Dr. Anthony Caruso, one of the top cardiologists on the East Coast, Matt didn't need to earn a scholarship to finance his college education.

Meanwhile, Toby was still looking for the wing he wanted to complete the Saints’ recruiting class. He lost James Marion to St. John’s. Chris Hollingshead picked Duquesne. Owen Merritt chose Muhlenberg. “I was close to putting the offer in my pocket and either saving it for the transfer portal or a 2009 player,” Toby recalled. “Then I got a call from a coach in New Jersey.” He smiled at the memory.

Frank Marinaro had met Toby at a coaching clinic four years earlier. A stocky, genial man in his mid-fifties with a booming voice and a firm handshake, Frank remembered Toby from his playing days. “I remembered reading about this kid at one of the Centennial Conference schools…a pretty good player who majored in philosophy or history or something like that, a true student-athlete. I couldn’t recall his name, but when I started talking to Toby at the clinic, I remembered who he was.”

Coach Marinaro thought St. Michael’s and their philosopher-coach might be a good fit for Matt. “I told Matt about St. Michael’s and Coach Whittaker, and I asked him if he’d mind if I reached out to them. He shrugged and said, ‘Sure.’ I figured Matt was simply being polite, but I felt like recommending him was the right thing to do.”

Matt found himself intrigued by Toby’s recruiting pitch. “I talked to Matt more about the courses he could take, the professors he could connect with, what it would be like to study and learn at St. Michael’s. That's what Matt really wanted to discuss with me,” Toby said. “Matt responded well to the atmosphere of tradition that surrounds this place. He liked standing on the court in The Pavilion, looking around and imagining what it’s like on a game night.”

St. Michael’s was the only school to recruit Matt seriously, much less offer him a scholarship. When he made his commitment on the first day of 2008, the Saints declared their recruiting season officially closed.

None of the three players were ranked nearly as high as guys like David Buffington or Newton Bruenig were when they came out of high school. Both David and Newton were among the top 200 players in their classes, high three-star recruits. Sandy Fancher, ranked #310, was the “best” of the Saints’ signees.

Still, as Ari Goldberg pointed out, “we signed the kinds of players we were looking for. We need size, and we got a 6’10” guy and a 6’7” guy who plays big. We need a tall perimeter player, and we got a 6’7” guard. We need players with good defensive instincts, and we got three guys we think we can work with.”

“Recruiting is a gamble,” Toby added. “The guys who rank the players and assign the stars know basketball, but they’re still looking at a player when he’s 17 years old and imagining what he’ll be able to do when he’s a 21-year-old senior. The top guys are easier to identify. It’s harder to evaluate the two- and three-star players with the certainty you need to be able to say ‘This player will definitely be better than that one.’ “It’s about fit, and we think our guys will fit.”

March 9, 2008


Here are Toby's thoughts about the Centennial Conference season, and the conference tournament:

When you step back and look at that run, I think the first word that comes to mind is growth. January was a turning point for us — we went on the road, we beat Hopkins in a tough environment, and then even though Franklin & Marshall got us, we didn’t let that loss linger. The guys responded with energy, put together a stretch of five straight league wins, and started to believe they could control games. That stretch — Swarthmore, Haverford, Ursinus, Muhlenberg, Dickinson — it wasn’t always pretty, but we showed toughness.

The Bucknell game was a reality check. That’s a program with tradition and talent, and we learned you can’t afford an empty possession against a team of that caliber. We had to take on Franklin & Marshall without Newton Bruenig. He tried to play with a painful rib injury, and he managed only four minutes that night. F&M got us a second time by two points, and I think that one stung — but sometimes a loss like that sharpens your focus. You saw it in how we finished: grinding out one-possession wins against Swarthmore, Muhlenberg, Dickinson. Those weren’t flukes. Those were the product of our guys deciding they weren’t going to break.

We ended conference play 12–2, and I’ll never minimize that. That’s hard to do in this league, with gyms where every night is a battle and you’re playing teams that know your playbook as well as you do. To win a tournament game, to get to the final — that’s progress for this program.

But I’ll be honest: losing to Ursinus in the title game hurts. We didn’t execute in the halfcourt, we let them dictate tempo, and we didn’t match their physicality on the glass. That’s the step we’ve still got to take. You can be proud of 22 wins, but if you want to be extra-special, you’ve got to finish those opportunities. We spent some time in the Mid Major Top 25, which felt like a well-earned reward. I think we'll be happier about that achievement once we can step back and think about it with some perspective.

So, yeah — proud of our group, proud of how far we’ve come, but we know the job isn't done. We’ve put St. Michael’s basketball back on the map. Now the challenge is to raise the standard again.”

April 4, 2028

Ursinus, who entered the Centennial tournament as its #6 seed, earned the conference's automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament. To get there, the Grizzlies had to defeat the #1, #2, and #3 seeds, in order: never an easy feat.

Their season ended with a loss in the play-in game.

Toby Whittaker's Saints accepted a bid to the CBI tournament, seeded fifth in the 16-team field.


Coach Toby Whittaker’s reflection on the CBI tournament:

“You know, when I look back at that run, I feel a mix of pride and heartbreak. Beating Indiana State by 21, taking care of business at Texas-Pan American, and then pulling out that win at Idaho on their court… that’s not luck. That’s discipline, focus, and heart. Those guys left everything out on the floor, and you can’t ask for more than that. I’ll never forget the locker room after Idaho — the way they celebrated together, the smiles, the high-fives, the sense that we’d accomplished something special. That’s the stuff you carry with you.

Then we get to Colorado State. Those losses sting. Badly. They’re the kind of games you replay in your head for months. The first one at their place was a slugfest — we hung in, pushed them to the limit, but they made shots at the end and we didn’t. Coming back for the home game, trying to close it out in front of our fans, and falling short… that cuts. You want so badly to give your players that ultimate reward, and we came up just short.

But here’s the thing — I’m proud of these kids. Proud of how they carried themselves, how they represented St. Michael’s, how they supported each other through every win and every loss. You see a kid like Andrew Fajardo, a senior who maybe nobody knew before the season started, who plays every minute with everything he’s got… that’s what you coach for. That’s why you keep coming back.

So yeah, the ending stings. But I don’t want anyone to miss the bigger picture: we were 25–12. We grew as a team. We showed the country what St. Michael’s basketball is capable of. And more than that, we did it together. That’s something no scoreboard can ever take away.”


The office was quiet, the only sound the faint hum of the heater and the occasional squeak of his chair. Toby sat behind his desk, head in his hands, the Pavilion scoreboard still flashing in his mind. He could hear the final buzzer and the heartfelt response from the capacity crowd. He could feel the emotion as he and his players sang the Alma Mater with the fans for the last time until next November.

He let out a long, slow breath and leaned back, staring at the framed photo of the team from earlier in the season—smiling, sweaty, triumphant after the Idaho game. He touched the glass lightly, as if he could feel the energy of that moment.

“Damn it,” he muttered softly, not because of anger but because it still hurt. He wanted that trophy for them. For the seniors who’d given everything, for the underclassmen who’d worked their tails off, for the program. But he also felt something else—something quieter. Pride.

He thought of the little things: the way they laughed in practice, how a freshman like Randolph Querry paid his dues without complaint, the way the team huddled after wins, sweaty and exhausted but grinning. That stuff mattered. That stuff lasted.

Toby rubbed his eyes and finally smiled, just a little, shaking his head. We fell short today, he thought. But they fought. They fought harder than anyone ever expected.

He stood and walked over to the whiteboard covered in Xs and Os, traces of the game still sketched there. He tapped it gently, thinking about adjustments, what could have been done differently—but he didn’t linger on the frustration. Instead, he let himself imagine the next season: the new recruits, the returning players, the games that were still waiting.

And for the first time since the loss, he allowed himself to breathe without that tight knot in his chest. We’ll come back. We’ll come back stronger.

Toby turned off the desk lamp, letting the room fall into darkness except for the glow of the scoreboard in the corner of the large monitor in his office—still showing the final 73–61 score. He didn’t watch it. He just let it be, a reminder of what had been, and a quiet promise of what could still be.


The house was quiet except for the soft ticking of the kitchen clock. Toby hung his coat by the door and kicked off his shoes, moving almost mechanically. Claire had put the kids to bed and had settled in the living room, curled up on the couch with a mug of tea.

He sank into the armchair across from her, letting out a long sigh. “Still can’t believe it slipped away,” he muttered, staring at the carpet like it might have the answers.

Claire set her mug down and leaned forward. “I know. But you’ve got to stop replaying it in your head. You coached your heart out. You gave them everything.”

Toby rubbed his face, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not just about me, Claire. It’s the seniors… they’ve worked so hard. I wanted that for them. I wanted them to feel the glory.”

She reached over and placed her hand on his. “And they do, Toby. They feel it every day in practice, in games, in how you challenge them and believe in them. Losing doesn’t erase any of that. They know you’re proud of them—maybe more than they even know themselves.”

He looked up at her, a small, tired smile forming. “You always know what to say, huh?”

Claire shrugged playfully. “It’s a gift. Someone’s got to keep you grounded.”

Toby chuckled, the tension in his shoulders softening. “I just… I hate that they have to feel the disappointment. Makes me feel responsible.”

“You’ve done your job,” Claire said gently. “And remember… there’s a life outside basketball. You get to come home, have tea with me, love on the kids tomorrow, breathe for a minute. That counts, too. You can’t carry it all.”

He leaned back, letting himself relax for the first time that night. “Thanks,” he said quietly. “For being here. For understanding. I don’t say it enough.”

“You don’t have to,” she said with a wink. “I’ll remind you anyway.”

For a long moment, they sat together in the quiet living room, letting the weight of the season settle but also allowing the pride, love, and resilience to linger. Outside, the night was calm. Inside, Toby felt the sting of the loss soften just enough to see the bigger picture: a team that had grown, a coach who had given everything, and the life and support waiting for him at home.

George Bergman (SF): The team’s versatile wing, scoring productively and providing solid rebounding and passing while shooting efficiently from both inside and outside.

Newton Breunig (SG): The primary scoring guard, delivering high-volume points with excellent shooting percentages and contributing defensively with steals.

Alan Gurrola (PG): The floor general, facilitating the offense with strong assist numbers while chipping in points and hitting free throws at a high rate.

Andrew Fajardo (C): The defensive anchor and top rebounder, providing a presence in the paint and providing efficient inside scoring and an occasional blocked shot.

David Buffington (PF): A consistent, rock-solid inside-out scorer and rebounder, combining solid post play with occasional perimeter shooting to stretch defenses.

Rainer Neubauer (C): A key reserve big man, giving the team depth with rebounding, shot-blocking, and efficient minutes off the bench.

Charles Clemmons (PG): A backup point guard providing energy, spot scoring, and occasional three-point shooting in limited minutes.

Randolph Querry (C): A reserve center who contributed rebounding, scoring efficiently in bursts, and helped protect the rim in limited playing time.

Arthur Huntley (SF): A bench wing who offered spot scoring and occasional defensive contributions in short bursts.

Scotty Barnett (PF): A role-playing forward who provided depth, modest rebounding, and occasional points in limited minutes.

Victor Stango (SG): A reserve guard contributing very limited scoring and minutes, mostly as a situational player.

Ernie Elsam (C): A deep-rotation center who saw minimal minutes, contributing sparingly in rebounds and scoring.

Here's assistant Ari Goldberg's analysis of this data:

“Looking back at the season, we showed a lot of strengths, especially on the offensive end. We led the conference in scoring at 74.6 points per game and were efficient in shooting, ranking near the top in FG%, three-point percentage, and points per shot. Our assist numbers were also excellent, which reflected how well the team shared the ball and moved it to the right spots. In transition and half-court sets, we created good looks, and our spacing and ball movement translated into high-percentage opportunities consistently.

Defensively, we were solid in some areas but had clear weaknesses. We held opponents to 70.5 points per game, which was respectable, and our defensive rebounding matched them on average. But we almost never blocked shots and didn’t get as many steals as we’d have liked. On the boards, we were slightly out-rebounded overall, and that hurt us in a few key games against bigger or more physical teams.

One clear takeaway was our consistency against lower-tier opponents—we dominated teams ranked 200+, going 17-4, but we couldn’t get over the hump against top-100 competition, going 2-6 combined against teams ranked 1-100. That gap highlighted areas where we needed to elevate intensity and execution—on both ends of the floor—against elite competition. We got it done against our conference, but the gap between us and the big guys is real.

Free-throw shooting was above average and reliable, which helped us close games, and our turnover rate was low, so we generally took care of the ball well. Overall, the data showed we were a well-coached, efficient team with a potent offense and good fundamentals, but we needed to develop much more interior presence, generate more defensive disruption, and find ways to win the games against the stronger opponents if we wanted to take the next step.

Bottom line: Offense was elite, team cohesion and shot creation were excellent, and we limited mistakes reasonably well. Defense and rebounding against top teams need more attention, and we need to emphasize interior presence and finishing possessions. If we can shore up those areas, especially against quality opponents, this team can be not just good, but really dangerous come tournament time.”

Four of the five Saints starters earned All-Centennial honors. Newton and George were the league's second- and third-leading scorers, and David placed fifth. Alan led the league in assists.

Then, Saints Nation was delighted to learn that senior David Buffington was chosen with the #58 pick in the professional draft. He would almost certainly be given a real chance to demonstrate his ability to play in the best basketball league in the world.



Ursinus landed the best recruiting class in the program's history, headlined by Dave Knorr, a wing whom Toby and his staff took a long look at. Muhlenberg's prize recruit, Owen Merritt, turned down an offer from St. Michael's.

The offseason changed the tempo of life in the Whittaker household.

Toby loved being able to work from home more often. The spare bedroom of their lovely Arts and Crafts bungalow had been turned into an office where he and Claire had desks and bookshelves. Toby loved being able to spend time with Eli at home. He often picked Nora and Grace up at St. Aloysius, or--better yet--went with Claire to greet the girls at the end of their day.

Claire's exhibit in the Callahan Library turned out to be a huge success. She was still planning on teaching, but that had taken a back seat to her own art career. With Toby at home more often, she had time (and solitude) to sketch and paint. She also occasionally substituted for the art teacher at St. Michael's College School.

The rhythms of their family life were sweet and soothing.

Orchard Street was quiet and leafy, so the entire family enjoyed evening "journeys," which involved Toby or Claire pushing Eli in a stroller alongside Grace on her three-wheeler and Nora on her "big girl bike" with training wheels. Toby loved looking at the older houses in their neighborhood. Mornings often meant trips to Elmwood Park, where the children enjoyed the playground the most. They would linger on a blanket, enjoying fruit, Goldfish, and coffee for Toby and Claire.

Nora and Grace were learning to help their Mom and Dad in the kitchen. Pancakes and cookies were their specialties, although Grace, in particular, wore more flour than she mixed. Eli's contributions were limited to "stirring" an empty pot with a big wooden spoon.

The evenings were times for stories. Toby and Claire were both born storytellers, and the girls adored the way their parents read to them, using different voices for the characters. Nora sometimes tried to "read aloud" to Eli, who mostly wanted to snuggle in her lap. Movie Night meant blankets on the big couch, a shared bowl of popcorn, and often, a nap for Toby.

For Toby especially, this was a season of learning to switch gears—being “Dad” without a whistle, without a clipboard. He loved watching Nora start to find her voice, Grace’s boundless energy, and Eli toddling into everything. Claire, steady as always, saw the joy in these ordinary days and quietly reminded him that this, too, was what they were building a life for.

November 11, 2008


Toby Whittaker's first season was, as he told his brother one night on the phone, "like something out of a storybook." The Saints tied their program record with 25 wins and came within a victory of a tournament championship. Toby knew repeating this success would be difficult. Two key players from last year's team were gone, and the Saints would miss them.

David Buffington would be impossible to replace, man-for-man. Big Buff started every game for four years, and he finished his career as the Saints' second all-time leading scorer and a professional draft pick. "No team can plug in a replacement for a player, and a leader, like David," Toby pointed out.

His classmate Andrew Fajardo would be missed, too. Andrew paid his dues and then some, working his way from a squad player to a starter in four seasons. Usually giving up several inches and thirty pounds to his opponents, Andrew battled them night after night without complaining or tapping out.

But the Saints' cupboard was far from bare. The Centennial Conference Player of the Year and two other All-Conference selections were still on campus.

Senior Newton Bruenig was ready to make his final season his best yet. The year before, he recovered from a terrible sophomore slump to emerge as the conference's top player. For his senior season, he added a new level of defensive intensity to his skill set.

George Bergman, now a junior, was still 6'4" and still a small forward. He would never be able to fly to the rim like some wings did; instead, he filled the air with daggers from three-point range. George emerged from camp with an even more elite three-point shot, which Toby told him to use on a very regular basis.

The third returning starter was point guard Alan Gurrola. Alan was an unselfish, creative passer who took care of the ball and kept his offensive-minded teammates happy. As a sophomore, Alan had averaged a quiet eight points per game, and he might be called upon to do a bit more scoring in his third year.

The Saints' remodeled front court featured redshirt sophomore Brenner Turnbull and fourth-year junior Rainer Neubauer.

Brenner's size and rim protection were the piece that had been missing last season, which he sat out after transfering from Tulsa. The staff's efforts to help him gain more offensive savvy didn't seem to bear much fruit, however. But if the seven-footer could block shots and frustrate opposing centers, he'd more than earn his keep.

Rainer was one of the team's most popular players. Two seasons ago, he joined the team as a walk-on, and since he was 6'7", he was immediately thrust into the rotation. Last year, he played the sixth most minutes on the team and he held his own, especially against conference opposition. Could he raise his game as a junior, or had he reached his limit?

Quick, reliable Charles Clemmons would be the top backcourt reserve. The junior was, as Toby admitted, "easily one of the team's five best players," but he was stuck behind three guys who were better than he was. Charles never complained and always did what he was asked to do. Teams needed players like Charles.

The entire team was talking about the play of freshman Matt Caruso. "The kid who said he wasn't sure he wanted to play college ball came in here and worked his tail off," recalled coach Charles Campbell with a smile. "He improved every part of his game, and he won our award for conditioning." Matt's emergence created an interesting possible scenario, in which he moved into the starting lineup in Neubauer's spot. Matt would be a smallish four, but he seemed comfortable switching onto bigs.

Or, would Matt's classmate, Joe Greeley, a natural post player, be able to accelerate his learning curve and challenge for playing time? Joe seemed more ready for college ball than the team's third new freshman, Sandy Fancher. At the very least, Joe and Sandy gave Toby the ability to bring some size off the bench.

Toby's expectations for the season were measured. The three proven stars were just that, among the conference's best. But Franklin & Marshall would be good again. Muhlenberg was returning the top six players from a team that won 17 games. Ursinus was adding a strong recruiting class to the group that made the NCAA tournament.

St. Michael's AD, Diane Lundquist, wanted a conference championship. Could Toby and his staff shift the pieces around well enough to win one?

What did some of the folks at O'Malley's Tavern think about the Saints' pre-conference performance?

Danny McCloskey – 39, history professor at St. Michael’s. Animated, wide-eyed, tends to spin every win as the start of a new dynasty. A true “program optimist,” the kind of supporter who thinks this year could be the year.
“Two blowouts in Vegas and a 30-point pasting of Wake Forest? Folks better start paying attention to the Saints.”

Ethan Carver – 36, data analyst for a healthcare company, St. Michael’s alum. Cerebral, precise, keeps a notebook of advanced metrics and insists on using terms like “adjusted efficiency margin” when everyone else just wants to argue about rebounds. Slightly socially awkward but respected for always knowing the numbers.
“Look, the Vegas wins were solid, but against sub-200 RPI teams. The Wichita State loss? That’s the only data point that matters from that trip.”

Sheila Duffy – 28, nurse at Elmridge General. Smart, quick with a quip, she keeps the guys honest. A Villanova alumna, but switched allegiances after moving to Elmridge.
“I’m just glad we’re not that old East Carolina team, getting run out of the gym by the Saints. That was ugly.”

Pat O’Shaughnessy – 50, owns Campus Threads. Generous, booming laugh, always defends the team with a mix of civic pride and nostalgia. Keeps referencing old St. Michael’s squads from the ’80s.
“C’mon, ten and five in non-conference, with half those games on the road? That’s no small potatoes.”

Joe Rasmussen – 39, local lawyer. Hot-blooded, wears his Saints fandom on his sleeve. Quick to celebrate, quicker to lament. Drinks IPA and slaps the bar when things go south.
“Temple game still burns me up. You can’t give up ninety to those guys, not if you’re serious.”

Tom Larkin – 65, retired English professor and Class of ’64 alum. The group's sage, likes to lace basketball talk with literary or historical analogies.
“Every season’s a narrative. The Vegas tournament, Wake, even Villanova — that’s all exposition. The question is, does the story become a tragedy or a comedy?”

Al Carr – 70, retired head of campus security. Gruff, loyal, drinks whiskey neat, and has a knack for grounding Tom’s musings.
“Spare me the Aristotle, Tom. We beat Penn State, that’s what the papers remember.”

As the Saints played their way through their pre-conference schedule, Toby and his staff were also busy recruiting the Class of 2009. They had three scholarships to offer, and this year's focus was on the backcourt.

Alan Gurrola and Charles Clemmons were classmates, juniors now. Between them, they claimed almost all the minutes at the point. Unless Toby brought in a point guard in this year's class, the departures of Alan and Charles in spring 2010 would leave the team without a player who had ever touched the controls of the team. Toby was interested in bringing in a guard who would learn from the veterans for a year before taking over.

A player who might fit that role was just about as close as a player could be.

Jalen Wilson was a senior at Elmridge High School. A 6'0" point guard, Jalen was an exceptional all-around athlete who also starred in the sprints and jumps for the Elmridge track and field team. In the classroom, Jalen combined talent and dedication in similar ways. He maintained a very high GPA while taking a challenging course load, and his test score earned him a National Merit commendation.

On the court, Jalen combined his quickness with a rare ability to command the floor and involve his teammates. If it sounded like Jalen saw the game like a coach, there was a reason why.

Jalen was the son of Carl Wilson, Toby's associate head coach.

This reality complicated the situation on several levels. If Toby examined his credentials without the name "Jalen Wilson" attached to them, the decision was easy. Jalen was everything a St. Michael's man should be. But that separation wouldn't be possible, and that made Toby wonder what he should do.


The Whittakers’ living room – late evening, late autumn

The house is quiet, the kids long asleep upstairs. A lamp glows in the corner, and Claire sits on the couch with a book in her lap, though she hasn’t turned a page in ten minutes. Toby walks in from his office, still in sweats, a mug of tea in hand. He drops onto the armchair across from her, looking heavy with thought.

Claire: (without looking up yet)
“I know this look. It's that time of year.”

Toby: (chuckles tiredly)
“Is it that obvious?”

Claire: (finally meeting his eyes)
“It’s always obvious. You look like you’re carrying a boulder around the house. What is it this time?”

Toby: (sighs, leaning forward)
“Jalen Wilson. He’s the real deal, Claire. He’s quick, smart, sees the floor better than kids two years older. And he’s… he’s right here in Elmridge. It feels like the kind of opportunity you dream about when you’re trying to build something.”

Claire: (careful)
“But he’s Carl’s son.”

Toby: (nodding)
“Yeah. And that’s the knot in my stomach. Carl’s not just my assistant — he’s like family. We’ve built this staff together. He’s trusted me with his career. And now…I might be asking him to trust me with his son."

(He rubs his temples, struggling with it.)

Claire: (sets her book aside, gentler now)
“So what’s the worry? That Carl will feel like you’re pressuring him? Or that people outside will think you’re bending the rules for family?”

Toby:
“Both. If I recruit Jalen, I need to know it’s because he belongs here, not because of who his dad is. And if I don’t, I need to know I’m not letting fear of appearances get in the way of doing what’s best for the team. Either way, it feels like someone’s going to think I mishandled it.”

Claire: (leans back, folding her arms, thinking)
“You’ve always told me recruiting is about fit, not just talent. Does Jalen fit? Not just on the court — in the locker room, in the culture you’re trying to build?”

Toby: (pauses, considering)
“Yeah. He does. He’s grounded. He listens. You know that; you know him, too. He’s got that mix of confidence and humility you don’t teach. He’d come in behind Gurrola and Clemmons at first, but by sophomore year… he could run the team.”

Claire: (soft smile)
“Then maybe you already know the answer. Just be honest with Carl. And with Jalen. If you do this the way you do everything else — straight, no shortcuts — people will see that. Eventually.”

Toby: (sits back, exhaling, almost relieved)
“Sometimes I think you should be the one running the program.”

Claire: (teasing, picking her book back up)
“I do run the program. I just let you handle the basketball part.”

(They share a quiet laugh. Toby sips his tea, the weight a little lighter, though the decision ahead still looms.)

The Wilsons’ Living Room, October 2008

The fall evening settles over Elmridge — leaves crunch outside, and the faint chill of October slips through the open window. Inside, the Wilsons’ living room glows with the lamplight, photos of Jalen in track gear and basketball jerseys crowding one wall. Toby Whittaker sits on the sofa, jacket folded beside him. Jalen is in the armchair across, shoulders a little hunched. He wears his Elmridge Track and Field quarter-zip, and a basketball rests in his lap. Carl leans in the doorway, quietly watchful.

Toby: (leaning forward, steady)
“Jalen, you know we’ve got two senior guards next year. Alan Gurrola and Charles Clemmons — they’ve carried us a long way. If you come to St. Michael’s, you’d be the freshman behind them.”

Jalen: (hesitant, eyes down on the ball)
“I get that, Coach. They’re great players. I just… I don’t wanna waste a year, sitting. I’ve worked too hard for that.”

Carl: (firm, but not harsh)
“It wouldn’t be wasted. You know that.”

Toby: (gentle, nodding)
“Your dad’s right. You wouldn’t just be sitting. You’d be pushing those two every day in practice. You could be the first guard off the bench — maybe twenty minutes a game, real minutes. And when they graduate, you’d step right into the lead role. That’s not wasting time. That’s preparing to own it.”

(Jalen nods slowly, fingers drumming the basketball. His tone is thoughtful.)

Jalen:
“I guess I worry I won’t measure up. Guys like Gurrola… he’s already all-conference. I don’t want to come in and look like I don’t belong.”

Toby: (leans in, voice steady)
“Jalen, I’ve watched you. You belong. What you don’t have yet, you’ll gain by facing Gurrola and Clemmons every day. Think about it — you’ll be tested harder in practice than you would in half the games. And when it’s your turn, you’ll be more than ready. You’ll be our guy. The offense runs through you.

Gurrola and Clemmons aren’t roadblocks — they’re a training ground. You’ll battle against two of the best guards in the conference every practice. By the time that starting job opens up, you won’t just be ready. You’ll be polished. You’ll be a leader.”

(Jalen looks up now, eyes meeting Toby’s. There’s no bravado in him, just a quiet hunger.)

Jalen: (softly)
“I want that chance. To lead. I just… wanna make sure I earn it.”

Toby: (with conviction)
“You will. And you’ll do it here, in front of the people who already believe in you. Elmridge High to St. Michael’s — that story writes itself. Kids at Orchard Park already wear your number. Imagine them watching you light up Villanova or Temple in two years’ time.

Carl: (gentle, almost proud)
“That’s the path, son. Not the easy one — the right one.”

(Jalen squeezes the ball in his hands, nodding. The idea of being the future of St. Michael’s, forged through humility and work, sits heavier now — but not unwelcome.)

Scene: The Wilsons’ kitchen – later that evening

Dinner dishes are stacked in the sink. Tessa’s retreated to her room with homework, Micah’s finally asleep, and faint beats drift down the stairs from Jalen's room. Carl sits at the kitchen table, staring into a half-empty glass of water. Monica comes in with a towel over her shoulder, wiping her hands.

Monica: (gentle but firm)
“You’ve been chewing on this all night. Just spit it out, Carl.”

Carl: (sighs, rubbing his forehead)
“Toby’s serious about recruiting Jalen. He said it outright. Wants him in the program.”

Monica: (pauses, leaning against the counter)
“And you don’t know how you feel about that.”

Carl: (grim smile)
“Try torn in twelve different directions. On one hand, it’s St. Michael’s. It’s Division I ball, it’s right here in town, and Toby’s built a system where Jalen could thrive. On the other hand…I work there. That’s my boss. My livelihood. I don’t want Jalen’s future tied up in my job performance.”

Monica: (walking over, sitting across from him)
“So you’re afraid people will think it’s nepotism.”

Carl: (nods)
“Or worse: that Jalen will think he only got the offer because of me. He deserves to know he earned it on his own. The kid’s busted his tail-- track meets, late nights at the gym. I don’t want that work cheapened by whispers.”

Monica: (softer now)
“Carl, anyone who’s watched him knows he’s the real deal. He’s not perfect; he’s still learning, still figuring out how to be a leader. But that boy belongs on a college court. And Toby’s no fool. He wouldn’t risk the program’s credibility just to throw you a favor.”

(Carl drums his fingers on the table, still uneasy.)

Carl:
“Maybe. But I also know the pressure that comes with wearing the jersey in your own hometown. He’s going to hear it from classmates, neighbors, alumni...'you're only there because of your dad.’ That’s a lot to put on a seventeen-year-old.”

Monica: (reaches across, takes his hand)
“And that’s why he needs us. To remind him he’s more than the chatter. He’s Jalen Wilson. He’s worked for this. And if he chooses St. Michael’s, it’s because he believes in what Toby’s building. Not because of us. Not because of you.”

(Carl looks at her, his expression softening. The weight lifts just a little.)

Carl: (quietly)
“You always know how to cut through the noise.”

Monica: (smiles faintly)
“It’s literally my job, darling."

(They share a laugh, the tension easing. Upstairs, footsteps creak — Jalen heading to the bathroom — and both parents fall into a silence, knowing the conversation about his future will soon be his, not just theirs.)

January 2009

The Elmridge High School gymnasium was a venerable old building, built in the late 1940s. The lobby smelled faintly of floor polish and popcorn from the concession stand. A scattering of folding chairs faced the trophy case, where state track medals and district basketball plaques gleamed under the fluorescent lights.

Jalen Wilson sat at a table in front of the case. He rested his palms on a stack of papers. Monica, an Elmridge High School counselor, stood just behind him with her hand on his shoulder. Carl, in a St. Michael’s basketball polo, stood close by with his arms around Tessa and Micah, who couldn’t stop staring at their big brother.

The Elmridge varsity boys' coach, Mark Delaney, leaned against the wall off to the side, arms folded, watching with the kind of half-smile that spoke of pride and the bittersweetness of knowing it was almost time to let go.

And off to the other side, Toby Whittaker stood quietly, trying not to take the young man's spotlight.

Jalen cleared his throat. His voice carried a mix of nerves and resolve.

“I just want to thank everyone who’s been here for me,” he said, eyes darting to Coach Delaney first. “Coach, you believed in me when I was a skinny freshman trying to run with the seniors. You taught me how to slow down and see the court. And, more importantly, you taught me how to lead from a place of humility. I wouldn’t be here without you.”

Delaney gave a short nod, lips pressed tight in a proud smile.

Jalen’s voice softened as he looked at his family.

“Mom, Dad…you guys pushed me in the right ways. Mom, you made sure I put my academics first, so I would be able to go anywhere I wanted. Dad, you’ve been both coach and father—and I know that wasn’t easy. Tessa and Micah, you've been my biggest fans. One reason why I work so hard is because I don't want to let you down. I want you to be proud of me.

"I love all of you."

Monica dabbed her eyes with a tissue, and Carl blinked fast, fighting the same.

Jalen took a deep breath. He looked down at the papers in front of him.

“I want to thank all the coaches who have been recruiting me. I've made my decision. After thinking about what kind of player and person I want to become, I’ve decided to commit to St. Michael’s College and play for Coach Whittaker and the Saints.”

Applause filled the small space—louder than the little lobby seemed capable of holding. Tessa and Micah rushed to their brother's side, hugging him around the waist.

Toby stepped forward, shaking Jalen’s hand and then pulling him into a brief hug.

“We’re proud to have you, Jalen,” Toby said. “Proud of the man you’re becoming.”

Coach Delaney walked over last. He didn’t make a big show of it—just gripped Jalen’s hand firmly, then leaned close so only he could hear:

“You’ve made the right choice, J. Go show them what we already know you can do.”

Jalen nodded, his throat too tight to answer. The crowd—his favorite teachers, his teammates and a few other friends, some neighbors—clapped again, and the Saints’ newest recruit stood a little taller in the glow of it all.

January 2009

Jalen Wilson's commitment completed St. Michael's 2009 recruiting class. Three perimeter players with different skill sets were set to join the program next fall.

The first to sign was a player Toby and his staff had been recruiting from the start of the season. Malik Jefferson was a 6'6" wing from Cardinal O'Hara High School in nearby Springfield, PA. A three-star recruit, Malik was rated #8 among small forwards in the East.

Here's what Toby said about Malik:
"Malik’s a kid who fits what we’re trying to build here. At 6’6”, 205, he already has a college-ready frame, and he knows how to use it. The first thing that jumps out is his efficiency--he’s shooting over 56% from the field, and he’s not living on easy dunks. He makes strong cuts, finishes through contact, and he rebounds his position well. Seven boards a game in high school tells me he’s not afraid to mix it up inside.

Skill-wise, there’s still work to do. His outside shot just isn’t there yet--12% from three, and the mechanics need some tightening. But the free throw stroke isn’t bad at 69%, and that gives me hope. He’s got the potential to grow into a reliable midrange and foul-line scorer. Defense is where I see real promise: he’s got length, quickness, and the motor to be disruptive on the wing. He can guard multiple spots, and with his strength, he won’t get bullied.

Turnovers are a concern--his assist-to-turnover ratio is upside down, and his handle is behind the rest of his game. But we’re not bringing him here to run the offense. He’s going to be a glue guy, an energy guy, someone who defends, rebounds, and finishes plays. If he embraces that role, he’ll get minutes early, and he could grow into a real two-way threat by the time he’s an upperclassman.

I also like the kid’s intangibles. GPA’s solid, test score shows he’s got the smarts, and from what I hear at Cardinal O’Hara, he’s coachable. Not flashy, not a stat-chaser. He competes. He’s the kind of player who can give us toughness and balance when we’ve got our scorers doing the heavy lifting.

Bottom line: Malik can be the glue that holds a program together. If he buys in, we’ve got ourselves a real Saint in him.”


The Saints' second commitment flew under the experts' radar. A 6'5" wing from Allentown, Evan Carlucci was rated at only one star, but Toby and his staff thought he was better than that.

Here's what Toby said about Evan:
"Evan’s a developmental guy, no question about it. He’s not coming in here with the physical gifts of a Malik Jefferson or the polish of a top-100 wing. But what he does have is a skill set we can grow and, just as important, the right head on his shoulders.

Offensively, Evan’s a perimeter player. His jumper’s already a real weapon. He has a nice midrange touch, and he’s knocking down 32% from three on decent volume. The free throw stroke is solid at 71%, which makes me think with reps he can push that three-point number into the 40s one day. He’s not going to create much off the bounce, and his handle’s a weak spot right now. But he doesn’t force much either--when he’s in rhythm, he can stretch the floor and make defenses honest.

Physically, he’s still catching up. At 6’5”, 200, he’s got the frame to play at this level, but he’s not explosive. Vertical and strength aren’t there yet, and defensively he struggles when matched against quicker wings. He’ll need to commit to our strength program and get comfortable with the speed of Division I. Rebounding numbers are decent--six boards a game--and that’s encouraging, because it shows he’s willing to get dirty even if he’s not an above-the-rim guy.

Turnovers worry me, especially with that 0.42 assist-to-turnover ratio. He’s not a decision-maker with the ball, and we’ll need to keep him in roles where he’s catching and shooting, not putting it on the floor.

The upside with Evan is his shooting. Potential says he can become a reliable three-point specialist with enough length to hold up defensively if he buys in. Every roster needs a guy who can come off the bench, space the floor, and hit a big shot. If he embraces that role, he’ll carve out a niche here. If he doesn’t, he’ll get buried. Simple as that.

Off the court, I like him a lot. Good student—3.4 GPA, 1330 test score—and comes from a solid program at Southern Lehigh. He’s coachable, works hard, and doesn’t carry an ego. For a one-star, he’s exactly the kind of bet I like to make: if he develops, he’s a weapon; if not, he’s a good teammate who raises the floor of our practices and locker room.

Bottom line: Evan’s not going to wow anybody right away, but if he sticks to his strengths, he could end up being one of those kids who surprises you by his junior year.”


Jalen Wilson's backstory made him the most intriguing of the Saints' three signees. Jalen was much more than a courtesy recruit; Toby would have looked closely at him if he hadn't been Carl Wilson's son and a local star.

Here's what Toby said about Jalen:
"Recruiting your assistant’s kid is never simple. But the tape doesn’t lie: Jalen can play. He’s earned this, and I’d be saying the same thing if Carl weren’t on staff. The real challenge is making sure people understand he’s not here because of who his dad is, but because of what he can bring us at the point guard spot.

First thing you notice with Jalen is the quickness. He has the speed and bounce of a track and field star, because he is one. He's explosive with the ball, and he uses it well. He can push the pace, get into the lane, and create opportunities. He’s got a tremendous motor, and his leaping ability is an asset: for a 6-foot guard, nearly four rebounds a game shows he competes on the glass. He’s active, athletic, and willing to do the little things that don’t always show up in the box score.

Skill-wise, he’s a developing floor general. Ball handling and passing both grade out very well, and he’s already showing flashes of the conductor he'll become. Nearly 7.7 assists per game against 1.7 turnovers — that’s a strong ratio, especially considering how much of the offense runs through him. He reads defenses, sets up teammates, and takes care of the basketball. Defensively, he’s active and aggressive. He pressures the ball, can hound opposing guards, and has the potential to be a defensive tone-setter.

The shooting, though, is the swing skill. Free throw percentage is solid at 70%, but he’ll need to develop a more reliable jumper to keep defenses honest. He's very streaky from behind the arc, but his mechanics are good. He has room for improvement.

What I love most is his makeup. GPA 3.55, 1420 on his tests: he's smart, grounded, and disciplined. Humble, competitive, hard-working, and already invested in our program because he’s grown up in our gym and around our culture. That matters.

Role-wise, as a freshman, he’ll come off the bench, learn the pace of college basketball, and bring energy in relief of Alan Gurrola and Charles Clemmons. By sophomore year, I see him ready to run the team. Long-term, he’s a two- or three-year starter who can set tempo, run our offense, and be a leader on both ends.

Bottom line: Jalen’s not a finished product, but he’s a competitor, an athlete, and a true point guard. If he commits to improving his jumper and continues developing his game, he can be a special player for us. And the fact that he’s one of our own — Elmridge kid, son of Carl — makes this one feel even better. He’s going to wear the jersey with pride."

March 10, 2009


Carlos and Denise Alvarez lived in the house across the street from the Whittakers. Carlos, who was an IT support specialist for a hospital in Harrisburg, said he was a "casual fan" of Saints basketball. Denise graduated from St. Michael's in the Class of 2000. She was more focused on academics than on basketball as an undergrad, but she remembered the energy in The Pavilion on winter nights. Now a sixth grade math teacher at St. Michael's College School, Denise found herself circling back to the program.

The day after the Centennial Conference tournament, Denise and Carlos were shoveling snow from their sidewalk when they saw Toby walking out to put some recycling in the bin. They waved him over.

Denise: (grinning) “Well, well, Mr. Whittaker. I hope you’ve been enjoying this Saints run as much as I have. Did you see what they did to Franklin & Marshall in the final?”

Toby: (laughs) “Eighty to forty-four. That was a statement, wasn’t it? Probably the sharpest game they’ve played all year.”

Carlos: (leans on shovel) “I’ll admit, I tuned in for that one. Even I knew F&M had gotten them earlier in February. To flip it like that? Pretty impressive.”

Denise: “Oh, don’t let him fool you, Toby. He was up off the couch when George [Bergman] hit those threes. I thought he was going to knock the lamp over.”

Carlos: (smiles) “Hey, the guy’s been scoring in bunches. He and [Newton] Bruenig—they’ve been the difference, right? One of them always seems to step up when they need a bucket.”

Toby: “Exactly. Bruenig’s been the steady hand, and Bergman gives them that extra scoring punch. When you can spread the floor like that, it makes everything easier.”

Denise: “And then you look inside—Brenner Turnbull’s been a wall. Seven feet, swatting shots, cleaning the glass. He’s not flashy, but he anchors everything.”

Toby: (nodding) “That’s what is different about this year's team. Now we have a true center who can protect the rim. Our defense has gone up another level. Combine that with Bruenig and Bergman knocking shots down, and they’re tough to beat.”

Carlos: “And that’s why they finished 13–1 in the league. You could feel it building—the close win at Dickinson, then cruising at Ursinus. By the time they got back to F&M in the final, it was like the whole team was in rhythm.”

Denise: “Makes you proud, doesn’t it? They’re not just winning—they’re doing it with style. This feels like something special.”

Carlos: “Think they’ve got a shot in the tournament?”

Toby: “If they get a decent draw? Absolutely. Nobody wants to deal with a team with scorers like George and Newton. And now Matt Caruso is making teams guard him, too. Combine that with an interior presence and you have a dangerous team.”

Denise: (nodding) “I’d love to see it. I was at St. Michael’s when seasons like this were just wishful thinking. It feels different now.”

Carlos: (grins) “Well, it gives us something to talk about besides the weather. Just don’t ask me to rattle off their rebounding stats.”

Toby: (smiling back) “Don’t worry, I’ve got that part covered.”


The first building blocks of the Saints' success were already firmly in place. Newton Bruenig and George Bergman entered the season as known quantities. Toby's game plan was geared to getting as many good shots for them as possible. As a result, only one team in the country took as many three-pointers as the Saints, and no team made more.

As Toby pointed out to Carlos and Denise, Brenner Turnbull gave the Saints an interior presence they lacked the year before. After spending a season guarding future pro David Buffington in practice, Brenner immediately began asserting himself as a shot blocker and rebounder. The big sophomore wasn't much of an offensive threat--he blocked more opposing shots than he made himself--but he stopped teams from attacking the Saints rim with impunity.

Once Toby and his staff settled on the team's optimal starting five, the team took off. Rainer Neubauer got the first shot at the four spot, but he struggled to defend bigger post players and provided very little offensive impact in return.

Freshman Joe Greeley had been playing very well in a reserve role, so he got the next chance to start. Joe fared a bit better, but good teams capitalized on the fact that the Saints had, at best, two-and-a-half scoring threats. Alan Gurrola, who had provided some sneaky scoring while running the offense from the point last year, struggled with his shooting all season this time around. It became too easy for teams to throw double teams at Bergman and Bruenig and force the Saints to play to their weaknesses instead.

Matt Caruso proved to be the missing piece. Matt was badly miscast as a "power forward," with his lean 6'7" frame. He was, however, an eager defender, who used his quickness to frustrate slower big men. And Matt turned out to be an even better shooter than Toby thought he would be. If opposing defenses focused too sharply on George and Newton, Matt made them pay; he shot 47% from behind the arc on fairly high volume.

The rest, as they say, was history. The Saints entered the tournament as its #1 seed, and rolled through three opponents to win the Centennial Conference tournament. They would almost certainly have made the NCAA tournament field without this victory; their RPI stayed in the 20s all season, and they were #36 on the S-Curve. But it was much more rewarding to cap off a regular season championship year with a matching tournament victory.

March 20, 2009
NCAA Midwest Region, First Round


The Saints accepted the #9 seed in the NCAA Midwest Region. Their first game was an intriguing contest between two evenly matched teams from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The computers said eight-seed Duquesne was almost exactly as good as the Saints.

The Dukes frustrated George Bergman more thoroughly than almost any team had done all season long. But Newton Bruenig dropped in five triples, and the Saints went 14-for-17 at the line. Meanwhile, they forced Duquesne into one bad shot after another, and the Saints pulled away during the second half to earn Toby Whittaker the first NCAA tournament victory of his career.


March 22, 2009
NCAA Midwest Region, Second Round

The Saints' reward was a date with the #1 team in the nation. The Boilermakers were the reigning national champion. Their lineup was filled with Mr. Basketball winners and high school All Americans. Their coach, Peter Luna, was regarded as one of the best younger coaches in the game. The stage was set for a Hollywood-caliber upset, but this wasn't a movie.


[Locker room, after the final horn. The Saints sit in silence, sweat still on their brows, the roar of Purdue’s crowd muffled by cinderblock walls. Toby stands in front of them, voice low at first but steady.]

Toby:
“Fellas… look at that scoreboard. 80–72. Against the number one team in the country. Against a team that’s thirty-three and one. We went toe to toe with them. Don’t hang your heads. Not for a second.”

(He lets his eyes sweep across the room—Brenner Turnbull with a towel over his head, Matt Caruso staring at his shoes, Newton Bruenig and George Bergman slumped side by side.)

Toby:
“You fought like hell. We played our game. We knocked down threes, we moved the ball, we battled on the boards. Matt, you gave us eighteen on the biggest stage there is. Brenner, you gave Bogart, who was a five-star recruit--in your class--more than he could handle. Alan, Charles—you never stopped pushing the pace. Every single one of you had a hand in this.”

(He pauses, voice catching just a little, then turns toward the seniors.)

Toby:
“Now… I want to talk about three guys who won’t be putting on a Saints jersey again."

(He nods at Victor Stango first.)
“Victor—you might not have played heavy minutes, but you’ve been the soul of this locker room for five years. You kept us loose, you kept us together. There’s no stat for that, but everybody here knows what you mean to this program.”

(Then to Arthur Huntley.)
“Arthur—six minutes tonight, six points. That’s who you are. Always ready, no matter the situation. You gave your best every single practice, every single game, and you showed these younger guys what professionalism looks like.”

(And finally to Newton Bruenig.)
“Newton—you’ve been the heartbeat of this team. Every big shot, every huddle when things looked shaky—you were steady. You gave us belief when we didn’t have it ourselves.”


(He takes a breath, looking at the whole group again.)

Toby:
“Seniors, you leave here with twenty-eight wins, a conference championship, and the respect of every man in this room. You’ve raised the bar for St. Michael’s. And the rest of you—you carry it forward. This isn’t the end of something. This is the start of what we can be.”

(He steps closer, softer now.)

Toby:
“Take tonight and remember how it feels. Remember the sting, the pride, all of it. Because we’re coming back. And next time, we’re the ones moving on.”

[The room stays quiet for a beat—then Caruso claps, slowly. Others join in, until the sound fills the space. The seniors lift their heads.]

Toby Whittaker’s Analysis of #22 St. Michael’s (2008–09)

Looking back at this team’s profile, a few things jumped out immediately. It was a well-rounded, disciplined unit that knew how to play inside-out and maximize its efficiency. They averaged 75.5 points per game, which was not just high for the Centennial Conference—it was elite nationally. And the margin of +10.6 points showed they didn’t just win—they controlled games.

Offense:
They were efficient at every level. Field goal percentage (.459) and adjusted FG% (.570) both ranked at the very top, showing that they took smart shots, valued spacing, and executed well against defensive pressure. Their three-point shooting (.392) and free throw percentage (.748) also indicated confidence from distance and the line, which was critical in tight games. Their assists per game (14.6) led the conference and reflected strong ball movement and unselfishness—it wasn’t a one-man show.

Defense & Rebounding:
Defensively, they were strong in team concepts. Defensive rebounds per game (24.4) ranked sixth nationally, and combined with 4.5 blocks per game, they protected the rim effectively. The challenge had been on the offensive glass—they were slightly out-rebounded at 9.1 offensive boards vs. opponents’ 13.6—but they made up for it with perimeter pressure and forcing turnovers. Their steals (5.6 per game) indicated active hands and good anticipation.

Ball Control & Discipline:
Turnovers were low at 13.0 per game, the best in the conference. That, along with fouls per game (17.1) being among the lowest, suggested a disciplined, fundamentally sound team. They didn’t give opponents extra possessions.

Overall Assessment:
This team had balance, spacing, and efficiency. The stats confirmed what was seen on the floor: they moved the ball well, hit shots at a high rate, crashed the defensive boards, and protected the rim. Their record against different tiers (1–50: 1–3, 51–100: 2–1, 101–200: 9–2, 200+: 16–1) showed they handled weaker competition dominantly and kept pace against top-level programs.

In short: St. Michael’s wasn’t flashy, but we were fundamentally elite. Any opponent had to deal with shooters, smart ball movement, and a big man protecting the paint. Teams couldn’t rely on just one or two scorers—they would be challenged across the board. If he had to prepare a team to play them, Toby would have emphasized forcing contested shots, hitting the glass, and keeping their big men from dominating inside. Missed assignments were punished quickly. No wonder this team set a new school record for victories and made it out of the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Here's what Toby had to say about each of his 2008/09 players:

Newton Breunig (SG): “Newton carried the scoring load night in and night out, hitting nearly 42% of his threes and finishing almost 90% from the line, a true senior leader on and off the court.”

George Bergman (SF): “George was our versatile wing, mixing high-volume shooting with solid rebounding and defensive effort, always ready to take the big shot when we needed it.”

Brenner Turnbull (C): “Brenner anchored us inside, protecting the rim, cleaning up the boards, and doing the dirty work that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet.”

Matt Caruso (PF/SF): “Matt gave us efficient scoring and floor spacing, hitting nearly half his threes and providing reliable minutes both inside and out.”

Joe Greeley (PF): “Joe was steady in a supporting role, contributing on the boards and hitting timely shots when the matchup suited him.”

Alan Gurrola (PG): “Alan ran our offense with poise, creating opportunities for others while keeping his own shooting percentage respectable from distance and the line.”

Charles Clemmons (PG): “Charles gave us solid backup minutes, moving the ball well and providing occasional scoring bursts in limited time.”

Rainer Neubauer (PF/C): “Rainer provided spot minutes in the post, grabbing rebounds and giving Brenner brief relief without letting our defense drop off.”

Arthur Huntley (SF): “Arthur made the most of limited minutes, hitting efficiently and contributing quietly on both ends, a dependable bench presence.”

Randolph Querry (SF): “Randolph played sparingly but could knock down a three or grab a rebound when called upon, adding depth to our wing rotation.”

Victor Stango (SG): “Victor brought energy and efficiency in short stints, hitting over 57% from the floor and giving us a spark off the bench.”

Sandy Fancher (PF/C): “Sandy’s role was extremely limited, but he showed steady fundamentals and effort in brief appearances.”

Ernie Elsam (C): “Ernie had just a cameo, but he made it count with a perfect field goal in his single appearance.”

Three Saints players richly deserved their postseason honors.

Brenner was second in the conference in rebounds and blocks per game, and would have placed second in field goal percentage if he'd taken enough shots to qualify.

George and Newton finished 1-2 in the league in scoring. Newton's career total of 2051 points ranks second in school history, 24 points shy of the record William Cecil established in 2005. Barring injury, catastrophic meltdown, or a surprise decision to turn pro this spring, George will surely break this record next season.

Only two players averaged more three-point baskets per game than George did, and Newton placed 13th.

And Toby won his first conference Coach of the Year award. :)


None of the Saints' three seniors were selected in the pro draft.


The only program to land two three-star prospects, St. Michael's pulled in the Centennial Conference's top recruiting class. Donald Harbison was the league's most highly-touted newcomer, with Malik Jefferson right behind him. However, Jalen Wilson and Stuart Drennen look like they could prove the so-called experts wrong.

November 8, 2009


Toby Whittaker knew his 2008/09 team would be an exceptionally hard act to follow. No Saints team had ever won as many games, overall or in conference play. And now, two of the three luminous stars he'd inherited when he came back to Elmridge were gone.

George Bergman, the reigning Centennial Conference Player of the Year, remained. George was a senior now. It was very possible that he would become the program's all-time leading scorer before conference play began. The Saints' offense was tailored to George's shooting ability, especially from three-point range.

George was able to move to shooting guard, his natural position, this season. Beside him in the Saints' backcourt would be his classmate, Alan Gurrola. A steady, dependable playmaker, Alan would probably finish the season in second place on the Saints' list of assist leaders. Along the way, he'd pass his head coach; Toby handed out 392 helpers in his career, and Alan had 340 as the season began.

The team's other senior was also a point guard. Charles Clemmons had played the role of loyal understudy for three seasons, and he played it very well. "We don't miss a beat when Charles enters the game," Toby pointed out.

Junior Brenner Turnbull returned to his role as the team's defensive anchor. Seven feet tall and nearly 300 pounds of muscle, Brenner worked relentlessly in fall training and emerged as an even more formidable shot blocker, interior defender, and rebounder. Any points Brenner contributed were a bonus, because he kept so many opponents' points off the board.

Sophomores Joe Greeley and Matt Caruso would start at forward. Matt's ability to stretch the floor and relieve the defensive pressure faced by George and departed senior Newton Bruenig was an essential element of last year's success. Matt was developing into a classic "three-and-D" wing. Joe, fresh off a season in which he played a productive 24 minutes per game, mostly off the bench, would enter this year as an unquestioned member of the starting five. Toby counted on him to guard opposing big men and grab some rebounds.

As expected, Jalen Wilson was ready for reserve duty behind the senior guards. Jalen, the son of Saints assistant Carl Wilson, was the best defender among the group.

The top frontcourt reserves would be senior walk-on Rainer Neubauer and sophomore Sandy Fancher. Understandably, Toby hoped Sandy would prove himself ready for heavier minutes, but if he wasn't, Rainer could be counted on to keep things from falling apart.

Likewise, the staff hoped freshman Malik Jefferson could handle some real minutes at forward. Junior Randolph Querry was also available, but Malik's upside made him a more attractive option.

Toby was cautiously optimistic about his team's chances. "We have three senior guards who have seen it all," he pointed out. "I've always thought a team with that kind of leadership has the potential to win a lot of close games. Brenner is the kind of big man who forces other coaches to change their game plans, because he won't let you do what you want on the low block. Matt Caruso came out of camp looking like a veteran.

"If we play the way we're capable of playing, March will be fun again this year."

On game nights at St. Michael’s, there was no moment more anticipated than the Saints Walk.

The tradition began in 1948, when the Saints' legendary coach, Fr. James Reilly, gathered his players on the steps of Callahan Hall before a crucial late-season game against Muhlenberg. Coach Reilly spoke to them briefly, urging them to win the game "for St. Michael's...for each other." Then, the coach led them on a walk through the campus, reminding them of what, exactly, they were playing for.

The Saints Walk was already a time-honored tradition when Toby Whittaker first walked with his teammates on a chilly November night in 1992. The ritual he followed was the one Father Reilly and his players began, and the one he shared with his own players, some sixty years later.

Just before tipoff, the players and coaches gathered on the steps of Callahan Hall, the college’s stately main building. Each man was dressed in a blazer and a tie, just as Coach Reilly and his lads had been. From there, the team began its slow, deliberate walk toward The Pavilion. Toby and his assistants led the way, with the team's seniors immediately behind them.

The path wound its way through the heart of campus, steeped in both history and ritual. First came the turn past O’Leary Library, its tall windows glowing with the lamps of diligent students who pressed against the glass to catch a glimpse of the players filing by before they closed their books and made their own way to The Pavilion. Then, the team passed the College Chapel, bells sometimes tolling in salute, the sound carrying across the quad.

From there, they entered the Cloister Walk, the stone arcade where the players' footsteps were the only sound they heard. At some point in the early 1950s--nobody remembered exactly when--the students began lighting candles and placing them along the path as it wound through the Cloister. This portion of the Walk was a time of quiet contemplation.

The procession continued past the Refectory, the dining hall, where staff sometimes stepped outside in their aprons to clap and wave. By this point, the crowd had grown. Students and townspeople lined the walkway, shouting encouragement to their favorite players.

"Get it done, George."
"You got this, Alan."
"I see you, Brenner."
The reception for first-year guard Jalen Wilson, who grew up in Elmridge, was especially warm.

Onward they walked, past Reilly Commons, the student union. By this point, The crowd stood shoulder to shoulder, and chants of “S-A-I! N-T-S!” filled the cool evening air. Here, many alumni, those who still lived in or near Elmridge and those who were visiting from farther away, joined in. Undoubtedly they remembered similar moments from their own undergraduate days.

Here, too, is where Claire and the kids always took their places. She could point to the very spot where Claire Dempsey stood before her first Saints home game, watching the freshman guard who had just become her boyfriend. Whenever she could, Claire Dempsey Whittaker stood in exactly that spot.

At the end of the path stood The Pavilion. The arena was still empty. The lights from inside shone through the clerestory windows as the players walked to the west entrance. Above the doorway was a bronze plaque, engraved with Coach Reilly's words:

“For St. Michael’s. For Each Other.”

Each coach and player reached up and touched the plaque. Only then did they enter.


The Saints Walk was more than a team entrance. It was a ritual of belonging, a visible link between the school’s past and its present, and a reminder that every victory carried the weight of tradition.

The St. Michael’s Sentinel
Q&A with Coach Toby Whittaker after the Nonconference Season
January 5, 2010

Sentinel Sports: Coach, 13–2 and sitting at No. 13 in the S-Curve. How would you grade the nonconference season?

Whittaker: I’d give us a solid “B-plus.” The record looks great — you can’t argue with 13–2 — but I still see room for growth. We shot the ball really well, defended at a high level, and proved we can win in different styles of games. At the same time, we’ve had stretches where we lost focus, especially in rebounding and turnovers. Conference play will punish that if we don’t clean it up.

Sentinel Sports: George Bergman’s numbers jump off the page — almost 28 points per game. What makes him so tough?

Whittaker: George is just wired to score. He doesn’t need much space, and he’s shooting the three at an incredible clip. What people don’t always notice is that he’s stronger this year — he’s getting to the rim, getting fouled, finishing through contact. But the best thing is his unselfishness. He draws attention and still finds teammates. He’s a star who doesn’t act like one.

Sentinel Sports: Matt Caruso has been a steady No. 2 option. How important has his development been?

Whittaker: Vital. Matt gives us balance. When defenses load up on George, Matt makes them pay. He’s shooting over 46% from three, and he’s also our best wing rebounder. I trust him to guard tough matchups, and he’s become a secondary playmaker. For a sophomore, he has a remarkable ability to settle us down.

Sentinel Sports: Your frontcourt has been more defense-first. Brenner Turnbull is blocking four shots a game.

Whittaker: Brenner changes everything at the rim. Opponents think twice before attacking us. His offense is still coming along, but he spaces the floor just enough and he’s been reliable at the free-throw line. What he really gives us is an anchor — our guys can pressure on the perimeter knowing he’s behind them.

Sentinel Sports: How do you evaluate the point guard spot? Alan Gurrola’s numbers are strong, and Charles Clemmons has been efficient in fewer minutes.

Whittaker: I like where we’re at. Alan has been steady — he pushes pace, makes shots, and sets the table for George and Matt. Charles has given us a lift, especially with his shooting. I like that we can change the rhythm of the game by rotating them. And I’ll say this: Jalen Wilson, as a freshman, has been terrific in his role. He’s defending, he’s making smart passes, he’s 16-for-16 at the line. That kind of maturity from a first-year is huge.

Sentinel Sports: At 13–2, fans are starting to whisper about March. How do you keep the group grounded?

Whittaker: By reminding them we haven’t won a single conference game yet. The Centennial grind is different — the gyms are packed, the rivalries are heated, the scouting is sharp. Our margin for error shrinks. So we celebrate the nonconference success, but now it’s about starting 0–0 again and proving ourselves in league play.

Sentinel Sports: What excites you most as you enter conference play?

Whittaker: The togetherness of this group. You see it on the Saints Walk before every game — they’re connected to each other and to this campus. When you have talent plus that kind of bond, you’ve got a chance to do something special.

February 1, 2010

A busy recruiting season for Toby Whittaker and the Saints ended with four signings, including a seven-foot center and three guards.

The four newcomers were slated to replace the team's three scholarship seniors and outgoing transfer Frank Bookout, whose combination of academic indifference and a nonchalance about improving his game kept him from being more than a practice player at St. Michael's.

The first to commit was point guard Caleb Lear. Toby had this to say about Caleb:

“Caleb Lear is a point guard who really understands the game. At 6-3 and 199 pounds, he’s got the size to see over defenses and the strength to finish through contact. He averaged 7.4 assists a game at Oyster Bay [New York] and that’s the number that jumps out — he makes the players around him better, which is exactly what we want from a floor general.

He’s not going to overwhelm you with scoring — his jump shot is a work in progress — but he can manage a game, push the tempo, and control the flow, which is critical in close contests. Caleb also defends with intelligence; he’s active, he gets steals, and he reads passing lanes well. Academics? He’s qualified and focused, but what matters most is his leadership and court awareness. We think Caleb can compete for a spot in our backcourt rotation right away, especially against opponents who have big, physical guards."


The same day, Toby was excited to secure the commitment of New Jersey shooting guard Desmond Lee.

“Desmond Lee is exactly the kind of player we were looking for at the two-guard spot," Toby said. "At 6-3 and 194 pounds, he’s long, athletic, and can shoot it from anywhere on the floor. He averaged 18.4 points a game at Ocean City, showing he can score in multiple ways — off the bounce, off screens, and in transition. He’s a smart player, too: he sees the floor well, moves without the ball, and makes the right reads in pressure situations.

He’s got a smooth shot, a quick first step, and the kind of instincts that make defenses work overtime. He rebounds and defends at a high level for a wing, and his versatility allows us to put him in multiple spots without losing spacing or rhythm. He works hard in the classroom, too. Desmond has a well-rounded game; he’s the kind of player who can come in, contribute right away, and grow into a difference-maker for us at St. Michael’s.”


A month later, the Saints added more depth to their backcourt with the signing of Sean O'Reilly.

Toby remarked: “Sean O’Reilly is a Philly kid through and through, and he brings a lot of toughness and smarts to the point guard position. At 5-11 and 165 pounds, he’s not going to blow you away physically, but he’s quick, fundamentally sound, and makes the right decisions under pressure. He averaged 6.4 assists per game at Roman Catholic High, and that ability to run an offense and control tempo is exactly what we look for in a floor general.

He’s also a pest on defense — active hands, good anticipation, and solid in one-on-one situations. Shooting is a work in progress, but he’s efficient around the basket and has the kind of touch that will improve in a college system. Academics? Sean’s a solid student with a 3.25 GPA, but it’s really his basketball IQ, leadership, and competitiveness that make him a perfect fit for St. Michael’s.”


Toby and his lead recruiter, Charles Campbell, knew they needed to add one more big man to their roster. They identified Trevor McMillan as their man, but they couldn't seem to persuade Trevor and his parents to sign. Finally, Coach Campbell delivered a persuasive enough case to get the Delaware product to sign.

Here's what Toby said about Trevor: “Trevor McMillan is a rare combination of size, skill, and mobility. At seven feet tall, he’s already a matchup nightmare, with instincts and a touch around the basket that really stand out. At Sanford School, he averaged 18.5 points and nearly nine rebounds per game, showing he can score inside, run the floor, and clean the glass on both ends.

He protects the rim and alters shots, but he’s also got a very impressive shooting stroke for a big man his size. His passing and court vision are solid for a post player, and he has the potential to stretch the floor like few bigs can if he continues to develop his outside shot. Trevor's length, athleticism, and instincts that make him a player who can impact games from day one at St. Michael’s. He'll get to learn from Brenner Turnbull for a season, too.


Desmond Lee seemed like the most likely of the four to make an immediate contribution at the collegiate level. Caleb Lear and Sean O'Reilly would likely compete for playing time behind Jalen Wilson; Lear, especially, would make sure Jalen stayed on his toes. Trevor McMillan could add a new dimension to the Saints offense: a stretch big who could score at all three levels.

Next season would be the first in which Toby wouldn't be able to rely heavily on players who were already part of the St. Michael's program when he arrived. Almost all the most important minutes would be covered by players he had recruited. How successful would Toby be, now that the stars his predecessor recruited were gone?

Emily Navarro '12 was impossible to impossible to miss at a St. Michael’s basketball game. A communications major from Allentown, she became the student section's unofficial leader, rallying them with signs, chants, and relentless energy.

She organized Facebook groups for theme nights, convinced classmates to pile into cars for road trips, and once printed 200 “Beat Swarthmore” flyers on the library printer. On game nights, her routine was simple: a Diet Coke, a Saints hoodie, and a spot in the front row.

Emily’s presence helped transform The Pavilion into the most energy-filled arena in the Centennial Conference.

Emily looked back at the 2009/10 season with pride and delight.

"We came into that season buzzing, and right away it felt different. We went out to Las Vegas and won the Challenge. Three good wins in three nights, on a national stage. But the night that changed everything was November 28th at UConn. No one believed we could do it, not in Gampel, not against the #5 team in the country. But we shocked them, 89–82. I wasn't there, but I screamed so much watching on TV that I didn’t even have a voice for a week after that game. That’s when the buzz around campus exploded.

"The run through December was like living in a dream. Gonzaga at home felt like a heavyweight fight, and when we took them down, people started whispering 'Top 25.' I’ll never forget the bus ride we organized for Duke. We were so lucky to get some of the tickets they allocate to visiting fans. We expected to just soak in the atmosphere—but we walked out of Cameron with a 76–62 win. Everyone on that bus came back believing we could play with anybody.

"Of course, it wasn’t perfect. Cleveland State tripped us up, then Davidson snatched one late. Those two losses felt like a reality check, but they didn’t crush the vibe. By New Year’s, we were 12–2, and suddenly national writers were actually saying 'St. Michael’s' out loud.

"Conference play was a grind. Franklin & Marshall, Ursinus, Muhlenberg—those gyms were never easy. The loss at Muhlenberg stung, and late February at Swarthmore was even worse. I can still picture their students rushing the court after they handed us our second league loss. That was the only time I walked back to my dorm in silence.

"But the guys bounced back like they always did. Wins over Hopkins, Haverford, Ursinus—it felt like we were carrying the weight of something bigger than just one season.

"This season has been magic. St. Michael’s went from 'cute little underdog' to a program that made people nervous to play. For me, a sophomore who lived and breathed this team, it was the most unforgettable ride of my college years...so far!

"I can't wait for the conference tournament. None of us can."

March 7, 2010
Centennial Conference Tournament Final



Dan Kessler – Radio Voice of the Saints

For more than two decades, Dan Kessler had been the unmistakable sound of St. Michael’s basketball. His booming baritone and gift for pacing made him a trusted companion for Saints fans from The Pavilion to living rooms across the Delaware Valley.

Kessler grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where he fell in love with Big 5 basketball listening to games on the radio late at night. After studying communications at Temple, he cut his teeth doing high school football and basketball before breaking into minor-league baseball. In 1996, he got the call from the Saints' broadcast partner — and he’s been courtside ever since.

What made Kessler special wasn’t just his voice but his feel for the moment. When a big moment happened, Dan had a knack for letting the roar of The Pavilion wash over the airwaves before he picked up the mic again.

Beloved by alumni and students alike, Kessler blended sharp play-by-play detail with genuine affection for the program. He was quick to share a tidbit about a player’s family in the stands, or recall a classic game from years past, giving his broadcasts both warmth and depth. Off the air, he was known as approachable and funny — a guy who might be found swapping stories with fans at the Cloister Café or O'Malley's after a game.

Kessler lived in nearby Haddonfield with his wife, Angela, and their two kids. Despite being a fixture at St. Michael’s, he still joked that his dream is to one day call a Phillies playoff run — but until then, the Saints remained his true home.

Kessler's color commentator was Ray DiPietro. Ray grew up in Scranton, and his delivery retained some of that Northeast grit. He played for St. Michael's in the late 1980s and for two seasons in Italy before beginning his broadcasting career. Humble about his own basketball accomplishments, he avoided the bragging some former players can't resist.

Ray always emphasized effort, toughness, and playing smart basketball.


Here's how Dan and Ray called the championship final on WELR (880 AM), the flagship station of St. Michael's small radio network.

Dan Kessler, at halftime:
“And that’s the horn here at The Pavilion, and Saints fans — it has not been the kind of half we’ve come to expect from St. Michael’s this season. Swarthmore heads to the locker room with a 49–39 lead over the Saints, the three-seed dictating the tempo from the jump.

The big story? Turnovers. Thirteen of them for St. Michael’s in that first half. That’s nearly a game’s worth in twenty minutes, and Swarthmore has cashed in just about every one. The Garnet are getting hands in passing lanes, doubling hard in the post, and they’ve frustrated the Saints’ ballhandlers.

Matt Caruso has done his part — 14 points on a couple of deep threes to keep the Saints in shouting distance — but George Bergman’s been bottled up, and Alan Gurrola hasn’t been able to settle the offense into its usual rhythm. On the other side, Swarthmore’s guards are playing with confidence, knocking down open looks and feeding off the Saints’ mistakes.

Now, it’s a ten-point hole, but remember — this is a veteran St. Michael’s group. They’ve been in tough spots before. The key in the second half will be valuing every possession, slowing things down, and letting their defense create opportunities. If they can string together stops and take care of the basketball, this game can swing in a hurry.

Again, your halftime score: Swarthmore 49, St. Michael’s 39. We’ll take a break here on Saints Radio, brought to you by Callahan Hall Coffee — fueling St. Michael’s since 1923. Back in a few with halftime stats and a look at what's happening in tonight's other action.”


Midway through the second half...Swarthmore 57, St. Michael's 52

Dan Kessler
“Chauvin at the elbow … pulls up for the short jumper — rejected! Brenner Turnbull gets all of it, a clean swat! But the ball caroms right back to Brack underneath … he powers up — and Neubauer erases it! Back-to-back blocks for the Saints!

The Pavilion is rocking now, listen to this place! Neubauer rips it down, outlets to Gurrola — Saints on the run, down five with 10:20 to play! Momentum turning here in the semifinal!

“Gurrola streaking up the floor … hits Bergman on the wing … George to the rim — TWO-HANDED JAM! Oh, my! George Bergman with the exclamation point, and the Saints are back within three!

What a turnaround — two blocks on one possession, and Bergman punctuates it at the other end! The Pavilion is on its feet — and suddenly this semifinal feels very different!”

Ray DiPietro:
“That’s the Saints at their best — defense fueling the break. Turnbull and Neubauer erased shots on one end, and Bergman knows exactly how to finish. That’s a four-point swing and a whole lot of momentum.”


Late in the second half...Swarthmore 85, St. Michael's 82.

Dan Kessler:
“Gurrola pulls it back out. Shot clock is off, there are 12 seconds on the game clock … Alan surveys the defense … swings it left to Caruso … five on the clock … Caruso steps back behind the arc … puts it up — IT’S GOOD! Oh, baby! Matt Caruso buries the three with three seconds left, and we are tied at 85! That's 28 points for Caruso. Looks like we're headed to overtime in the Centennial Conference final!

Ray DiPietro:
“That’s exactly why you never leave him open at the perimeter! Caruso knew the clock, knew his spacing — and he calmly delivered when it mattered most. That’s Saint basketball, Dan!”

Dan Kessler:
“You could hear the roar from The Pavilion all the way across the campus, Ray! Incredible composure under pressure. Three seconds left, and anything can happen in overtime!”


Dan Kessler:
“And we’re back underway in overtime! Saints and Garnet tied at 85. Gurrola brings it up for St. Michael’s … looking to set up the first possession … Turnbull posting up on Chauvin … good screen from Caruso … Gurrola swings it right to Bergman … he fakes, drives … tough shot — no good! But Turnbull cleans it up inside! Back out to Alan, and the Saints will set it up again.”

Ray DiPietro:
“That’s why you can’t underestimate Brenner’s presence in the paint. He erases a miss, and suddenly the Saints have momentum swinging their way already. This is a battle of wills now, Dan.”

Dan Kessler:
“Absolutely, Ray — a fresh five minutes to decide it, and the Saints have the crowd buzzing. Every possession counts!”


Dan Kessler:
“Brown brings it up for Swarthmore, Szymanski on the wing … 2:25 to go in overtime, game tied at 87 … Brown tries to thread it into Szymanski inside … and Clemmons deflects it! The ball is loose — Saints scrambling … oh, a Swarthmore player knocked it out of bounds. Saints ball!”

Ray DiPietro:
“That’s textbook St. Michael’s defense! Clemmons reading the play perfectly, timing the deflection, and forcing the turnover. That’s exactly the kind of heads-up play you need in the final minutes of overtime.”

Dan Kessler:
“Crowd is going nuts here at The Pavilion, Razor! Saints get the stop, get the possession, and they can’t ask for a better setup with just over two minutes left! But, wait a moment...Clemmons is limping. He's going to have to come out of the game. Such a tough break for a classy senior who's played so well tonight. Jalen Wilson will check in to replace Charles."

Dan Kessler:
“Gurrola brings it up for St. Michael’s, 2:15 on the clock … swings left to Bergman … resets … back to Gurrola at the top … drives, pulls up from ten feet — GOOD! Alan Gurrola knocks it down! Saints take the lead, 89–87, their first lead since the opening minutes of the game!”

Ray DiPietro:
“That’s a huge shot, Dan! Gurrola stays composed under pressure, hits the jumper, and now the Saints have the momentum swinging back their way. That defensive stop by Clemmons set this up perfectly.”

Dan Kessler:
“The Pavilion has erupted! The Saints lead for the first time since the very beginning, and every possession is going to be critical from here on out!”


Dan Kessler:
All right, Saints have the ball with 21 seconds to go, down 92–91. Normally Charles Clemmons would be out here for St. Michael’s, but he’s on the bench nursing that rolled ankle — so Coach Whittaker's going with Brenner Turnbull, Matt Caruso, George Bergman, Alan Gurrola, and Jalen Wilson.

Here we go. Alan brings it across midcourt … quickly surveys … swings right to Bergman … George dribbles, now kicks back to Gurrola … 10 seconds on the clock … Saints resetting … Brenner screens for Wilson at the top of the key … Gurrola drives … draws the defender … kick out to Wilson!

Wilson rises — shoots from the wing … GOOD! IT'S GOOD! Jalen Wilson buries the jumper with two seconds left, and the Saints lead 93–92! Incredible composure from the freshman, and his first basket of the game! What a moment!”

Ray DiPietro:
“Unbelievable, Dan! And with Clemmons sidelined, Toby had to rely on Wilson to handle the pressure — and he delivered perfectly. That’s poise and confidence in a freshman. Exactly why you have shooters and ballhandlers in those final possessions.”

Dan Kessler:
“The Pavilion has erupted! Fans on their feet, players swarming Jalen — what a finish in the Centennial Conference championship game! From 21 seconds out, that possession was pure precision. Will a freshman from right here in Elmridge become a hero tonight?

There are still 2.8 seconds on the clock. Coach Strathan called time out, so Swarthmore has time for a little more than a catch-and-shoot."

Ray DiPietro:
"You have to think they're going to get the ball into Stanley Brown's hands here. They don't need a three-pointer. Toby has to be telling them not to foul anyone, under any circumstances."

Dan Kessler:
"This is it. Swarthmore to inbound. Brenner's annoying the passer. He gets it in play, and Brown has it. He lets go from 40 feet...it HITS THE RIM and bounces away!

They've done it! The final score in the Centennial Conference championship game: in overtime--St. Michael's 93, Swarthmore 92!"

After the drama of the Centennial Conference tournament, the Saints' experience at the Big Dance was, understandably, an anticlimax.

As the #6 seed in the East Regional, St. Michael's drew an intriguing matchup with a similar program: Ivy League champion Princeton. The two programs were attractive underdogs from schools that valued academics, and their campuses were located only 50 miles or so apart.

Six-eleven matchups are often close and invite upsets, and for about thirty minutes of game time, that looked likely to happen. Once again, the Saints started slowly and had to claw their way back into the contest. This time, they made their move more quickly and more decisively, and rode 25 points from George Bergman and 6 blocks from Brenner Turnbull to a ten-point victory that was closer than the score indicated.

The victory was the Saints' 30th of the season, and it earned them an appointment with the tough Florida Gators. Florida coach James Hartle pointed out to his team that the Saints were actually the higher-ranked team, despite having a poorer tournament seed. "Show them how wrong the poll voters are," he challenged his players.

It was a bit of a cheap trick. Florida was one of the sport's elite, a 100 Prestige program that had been to the Sweet Sixteen 22 times and made it to the Final Four three times. St. Michael's, Prestige 61, had made it out of the first weekend only twice.

The game was competitive. St. Michael's twice opened up six-point leads, one in each half. But the Gators' superior depth enabled them to pull away in the game's final ten minutes. Toby couldn't ask much of Charles Clemmons, whose painfully twisted ankle had him playing at perhaps three-fourths of his usual capability. Meanwhile, Florida could bring a former five-star recruit, senior Darrick Gold, off the bench. Gold, a grown man at 6'4", 212 pounds, was too much for Jalen Wilson to handle, and even a veteran like Alan Gurrola struggled against him.

Florida led by nine points with three minutes left. Triples from George Bergman--the 537th and last of his unforgettable career--and Matt Caruso made the final score more respectable, but Toby and his players all knew they'd been outplayed.

It was time to return home, finish the semester, and begin the preparations for the next season...or for the seniors, whatever came next.

How did Toby and each of his three assistants view the 2009/10 season?

First, from assistant Ari Goldberg, the most data-oriented member of the staff:

“If you strip away the record and rankings, the efficiency numbers tell the real story. We were one of the most complete two-way teams in the country. Our adjusted field goal percentage margin (+13.4%) was No. 1 nationally, and our points-per-shot differential (+0.356) was also No. 1. That’s dominance rooted in shot quality and shot defense, not pace.

Strengths:

Defense at the rim and perimeter: Opponents shot just 37.9% overall and 35.5% from three. Combine that with 6.5 blocks per game (top 10 nationally), and you see why teams struggled to score efficiently.

Rebounding split: Our defensive rebounding margin (+5.2, 4th nationally) covered up for below-average offensive glass work. That’s a tradeoff you’ll take if your eFG% is elite.

Ball movement vs. opponents: We assisted on 15.6 baskets per game versus holding opponents to 12.4. That +3.2 assist margin (18th nationally) shows consistent offensive execution.

Free throws: Quietly a top-40 free throw team at 71.9%. And we held opponents to 62.4% at the line, which is almost as impactful as blocks in certain games.

Weaknesses:

Turnovers: 13.3 per game, only an average margin (+1.5). Against better defensive units, this kept opponents in games.

Offensive rebounding: Bottom half nationally (ranked 218th). When we missed, we didn’t extend possessions.

Steals: Only 3.9 per game (ranked 347th). This team guarded well in the halfcourt but didn’t generate much in transition through takeaways.

Overall:
We finished top 15 in RPI and efficiency margins across nearly every critical category. But the profile is clear: we won by execution, efficiency, and halfcourt defense rather than raw athletic pressure. Our ceiling against elite competition depended on hitting threes (39.3%) and avoiding turnover spikes.

If you project forward, sustaining this model means two things: (1) we need at least one high-level shot creator to reduce reliance on pure system execution, and (2) we should target a frontcourt player who can add second-chance points without compromising our defensive rebounding edge.

Bottom line: This was not a fluke 30-win season. The underlying data supports a top-15 national profile.”


Associate head coach Carl Wilson was Toby's right-hand man on the bench.

“When I look back at this year, I don’t just see thirty wins — I see the structure that held us together. We weren’t the biggest team, and we weren’t the most athletic in every matchup, but we played disciplined basketball on both ends. That’s what kept us consistent.

Defensively, our numbers tell the story. Opponents shot under 38% against us, and just 35% from three. That’s not an accident. We emphasized closeouts, help-side rotations, and keeping teams to one shot. Our defensive rebounding edge was critical — we gave ourselves extra possessions while limiting theirs.

Offensively, our spacing and ball movement were as good as I’ve seen since I’ve been here. We finished top 15 nationally in field goal percentage and three-point percentage, and that comes down to execution: guards reading screens correctly, wings lifting or drifting at the right times, bigs sealing inside to open up driving lanes. We had stretches where the ball barely touched the floor before we got a clean look.

That said, there are areas I’ll be dwelling on all offseason. Our turnover margin hurt us in certain games — when we got sloppy with our passes or rushed against pressure, that’s when we lost. And I’ll be the first to say: our offensive rebounding needs work. Too often, we were sending three back in transition instead of putting pressure on the rim.

But overall, this team bought into detail. When we beat Connecticut, it wasn’t just hot shooting — it was sticking to the plan, communicating through switches, and executing late in possessions. You don’t get wins like that without sharp X’s and O’s married to players who are willing to follow through.

For me, that’s the success of the season: the schemes worked, and the players executed them at a high level. And that’s something we can build on.”


Charles Campbell was the staff's ace recruiter. How did he view the season, through that lens?

“You want to know what makes this place special? Look at the year we just had. We didn’t just win thirty games — we did it while playing a brand of basketball every high school kid in America wants to be part of.

We played fast. We played free. Everybody had a role. Six, seven guys had games where they carried us, and nobody cared who got the credit. That’s why our shooting numbers were so good — kids weren’t out there forcing shots, they were playing in rhythm. If you can shoot it, if you can pass it, you can succeed here.

Look at who we beat. We went up to Connecticut and knocked off the No. 5 team in the country in their own gym. We won at Duke. That’s not luck — that’s proof that our guys could walk into the toughest places in college basketball and come out winners. You don’t think recruits notice that? You don’t think they want to be the next name people talk about after a game like that?

And we did it together. That’s the selling point. You come to St. Michael’s, you’re not sitting in the shadows. We develop everybody who wants to work for it. We give guys chances to grow, and if you’re ready, you’ll have a chance to shine in big moments.

So yeah, I’m proud of the 30–5 record. But what I really see is a story we can tell every kid we talk to: come here, and you’ll be part of a program that wins, that develops you, and that gives you a stage. That’s how you build a legacy.”


And, finally, Toby Whittaker's words, reflecting the team's culture, identity, and pride.

“You don’t need a degree in statistics to see what kind of team we had this year. We won thirty games because we did the little things right — night after night.

On defense, we were as solid as anybody. We contested every shot, we protected the rim, and we made teams work for everything. You hold opponents under 38% shooting over a season, that’s toughness. That’s commitment.

On offense, we shared the ball. Fifteen, sixteen assists a game — that’s guys trusting each other, moving without the ball, and making the extra pass. And when it came down to knocking down shots, we hit them. Almost 40% from three, over 70% at the line. Those numbers aren’t just stats, they’re proof of preparation.

Now, we weren’t perfect. We gave a few too many possessions away with turnovers, and we didn’t always get that second shot on the glass. That’s an area where we’ve got to grow. Against the best, every rebound, every possession matters.

But the identity of this group was clear. We were efficient, we were disciplined, and we played together. That’s how you go 30–5. That’s why we earned respect across the country. And that’s why I believe this is just the beginning for St. Michael’s.”

Here's how the Saints broadcast team, Dan Kessler and Ray DiPietro, described each of the Saints at some point during the wonderful 2009/10 season.

George Bergman (SG): “And there’s Bergman — the flamethrower — 25 points a night, deadly from deep, and the heartbeat of this St. Michael’s offense.”

Brenner Turnbull (C): “Turnbull in the middle, the big man who makes life miserable at the rim with nearly four blocks a game.”

Matt Caruso (SF): “Here’s Caruso, smooth operator on the wing, fifty percent shooter, and a steadying presence the Saints lean on.”

Alan Gurrola (PG): “Gurrola, the floor general — top-notch distributor, sneaky good shooter, and the guy who keeps everyone organized.”

Joe Greeley (PF): “And don’t forget Greeley — not flashy, but the grinder who rebounds, defends, and does all the dirty work.”

Charles Clemmons (PG): “Senior Clemmons off the bench, a change-of-pace guard who brings speed, energy, and just enough outside punch.”

Rainer Neubauer (PF): “Neubauer checking in — rugged, physical forward, always ready to defend and bang down low.”

Jalen Wilson (SG): “And here’s the coach’s son, Jalen Wilson — earned every minute with efficient shooting and a smart, team-first game.”

Sandy Fancher (C): “Fancher in the paint, still raw, but gives them size, hustle, and some boards when they need a breather for Turnbull.”

Malik Jefferson (SF): “Jefferson, the young spark — instant offense in short bursts and a glimpse of future firepower.”

Ernie Elsam (C): “Elsam, the reserve big, brings a body inside and can finish around the rim in spot minutes.”

John Markel (PF): “Markel, not a regular in the rotation, but a tough kid who’ll scrap for rebounds when called upon.”

Evan Carlucci (SG): “Carlucci, deep bench guard, a shooter who can step in and knock one down if left open.”

Randolph Querry (SF): “And there’s Querry — the junior with little run this year, but a guy who's always worn the Navy and Gold well.”

George Bergman shattered several of St. Michael's most important individual records on the way to his second straight Centennial Conference Player of the Year award and his third selection to the All-Conference first team.

George finished his career with 2601 points and 537 made three-pointers. The second man on each of those lists in Centennial Conference history had 2214 and 431, respectively. Only one player in NCAA history, Lenny Arzola of Kentucky, had made more threes; Arzola sunk 566 in a career that ended in 1990. George's points total ranked 14th all-time.

No player in NCAA history made more threes in a single season than George did in his senior season. He also attempted more threes than any player did in a single season, but he still hit nearly 44 percent of those shots.

If George Bergman wasn't the best player in Saints history, I'm not sure who was.

Brenner Turnbull, Matt Caruso, and Alan Gurrola each earned their second All-Conference first team nomination.

And Toby Whittaker brought home his second conference Coach of the Year prize.


Surprisingly, no professional team thought a shooter who ranked among the best in college basketball history was worth a draft pick. Sorry, George.



St. Michael's trio of three-stars, plus a bonus two-star signee, gave them the Centennial Conference's top recruiting class once again. Big man Trevor McMillan was the experts' pick as the Saints' prize recruit, although guard Caleb Lear looked like he was more ready for college hoops on the day he accepted his high school diploma.

F&M's Wilbur Kocher arrived with the most glowing accolades as a high schooler (he was almost a Top 100 player), but he didn't stand out among the Red/Green players who would join the Centennial Conference in the fall of 2010.

April 10, 2010

A peek under the hood of the game reveals that Toby Whittaker has leveled up in time for his fourth season at St. Michael's.

Now, Toby is a Level 7 coach, and his ratings look like this:

Recruiting: 70
Scouting: 50
Coaching Offense: 60
Coaching Defense: 60

Toby's assistants, with their specialty ratings, are:

Head Recruiter: Charles Campbell (65)
Lead Scout: Ari Goldberg (60)
Coaching Assistant: Carl Wilson (Offense 15, Defense 100)

Obviously, Toby takes the lead when it comes to coaching offense, while Carl works his magic on the defensive side of the ball.

Swarthmore's Ambrose Strachan and Dickinson's Jack Amerson are the two other Level 7 coaches in the Centennial Conference. Both are in their fifties; Coach Strachan spent over 20 years as an assistant in marquee programs like Georgetown and Indiana before finally getting the big whistle at Swarthmore last season. Coach Amerson was an assistant at Houston before beginning a decade-long run in Carlisle. Both men have been part of coaching staffs that have led teams to two Final Fours.

Toby, on the other hand, will be 36 when the 2010/2011 season begins. It probably won't be long before some athletic director at a powerhouse program offers Toby a job. His 80-24 record is good for a .776 winning percentage; if he'd coached long enough to qualify, that mark would be among the top ten in NCAA history.

But Toby's not going anywhere.

Late last season, the Saints' all-time record edged above the .500 mark. St. Michael's now claims an 806-797 mark (.503), which is just a bit better than Franklin & Marshall's 794-791 slate (.501). Both programs have now won 10 Centennial Conference championships, but St. Michael's has been, by far, the best in tournament play. Their 14 titles are five more than any other team in their league.

Late June, 2010

The sun had barely risen over the Jersey Shore boardwalk when Toby, Claire, Nora, Grace, and Eli tumbled out of the SUV. Toby stretched his arms. “Alright, team, today we make memories, not spreadsheets.”

“Does that mean no 'cruiting?” asked Eli, almost five, peering up at him with wide eyes.

“For at least five hours,” Toby said, grinning.

Breakfast came first, a greasy-diner feast of pancakes, bacon, and coffee. Eight-and-a-half-year-old Nora was already elbow-deep in a thick novel she’d insisted on bringing. “I cannot be disturbed,” she warned, peering over her glasses. Six-and-a-half-year-old Grace rolled her eyes. “Books over bacon? Seriously, Nora?” she said, swiping the last slice.

“Hey!” Eli squealed, grabbing it back. Claire sighed with laughter. “This is why I have my coffee,” she muttered, shaking her head at the chaos.

On the beach, the siblings’ personalities came alive. Toby crouched by the water, showing Eli how to skim a rock. “See? Flat side down, flick your wrist.” Eli’s rock splashed gloriously into the water. “I did it!” he yelled. Grace, meanwhile, was constructing a sand fortress with more towers than Toby could count. “It’s the Castle of Doom!” she declared.

Nora wandered along the edge of the waves, examining shells. “This one’s perfect,” she said, holding it to her ear. “I can hear the ocean whispering secrets.” Toby chuckled. “You’ve got a future in storytelling, kiddo.”

Lunch was on the boardwalk, hot dogs and fries eaten from paper plates while dodging cyclists and souvenir hawkers. Grace tried to haggle with a vendor over a seashell necklace. “I’ll give you three bucks!” she said confidently. “Two fifty!” the vendor countered. Claire shook her head. “Negotiating lessons from age six-and-a-half.”

Later, atop the Ferris wheel, Toby and Claire held hands while the kids squealed over the dizzying heights. “I can see my whole kingdom!” Grace shouted. Nora, clutching her book, waved to the distant horizon. “And my story is out there too,” she said softly.

Ice cream cones were the final stop. Eli managed to dump half his on the boardwalk, and Grace groaned at the sticky mess. “Well, I guess I’ll just eat yours, little brother,” she said with mock solemnity.

By the time they piled back into the car, the kids were sandy, sticky, and sun-kissed, and even Nora’s book had been forgotten for a while. Toby watched them dozing in the backseat, the smell of salt in the air. “All right,” he muttered to Claire, “today we really did make memories.”

Claire smiled. “Best kind of workday, isn’t it?”

November 7, 2010


Toby Whittaker knew the Saints wouldn't be able to sneak up on their opponents any longer. No more would they be considered "plucky little St. Michael's," a team that had stars in their eyes when they visited a major conference opponent.

But, at the same time, he and his staff sensed they weren't part of college basketball's elite. St. Michael's couldn't yet recruit on a national scale. Their facilities were superb by Centennial Conference standards, but most of the Philadelphia area schools were at least as well-appointed. Toby and his staff had not quite $13,000 to spend each month on recruiting. Villanova, Temple, and La Salle all had budgets twice as large. Toby still sensed the Saints needed to punch above their weight.

The young coach was aware that, for the first time, he would enter a season without the presence of at least one of the three stars his predecessor had recruited. David Buffington, Newton Bruenig, and George Bergman could make any coach look good. What would happen now that all the players upon whom Toby would rely were players he'd recruited?

Only on Toby's most melancholy nights would he fear the cupboard was bare. Bergman and his game-breaking scoring ability was gone, and so was Alan Gurrola, the league's leading playmaker. But the Saints still had two All-Centennial first team players: center Brenner Turnbull and wing Matt Caruso.

Brenner was the most fearsome big man in the Centennial Conference, a dominant rebounder and a tough post defender. But the seven-footer's trademark skill was rim protection. Last year, Brenner set a new St. Michael's record for blocked shots in a season, and he would almost certainly become the Saints' all-time blocks leader before Christmas.

Matt had made big strides in each of his first two collegiate seasons. Now, as a junior, he would be counted on to be the team's most productive scorer. He worked hard in camp, making his jumper more deadly and sharpening his defensive awareness.

The team's other returning starter was power forward Joe Greeley. The junior was a grinder, a hard-nosed defender and a tough rebounder. He had never been asked to do much scoring, but his post moves looked smoother and more decisive this fall.

Sophomores Malik Jefferson and Jalen Wilson would round out the starting five. Malik did almost everything fairly well, which made him very well-suited for a supporting role. After a year's apprenticeship under All-Conference point guard Alan Gurrola and third guard deluxe Charles Clemmons, Jalen was expected to take the controls this season. Like several of his teammates, Jalen improved the key aspects of his game quite a bit in camp.

The first big man off the bench would be junior Sandy Fancher, a traditional big man who could rebound, play defense, and block a few shots. Freshman guards Desmond Lee and Caleb Lear seemed ready for college ball, to the staff's delight, and fellow first-year Trevor McMillan "blew up in camp," in the words of assistant Charles Campbell. Those nine players looked like they would form the core of the Saints' rotation, with spot appearances by veteran Randolph Querry and youngsters Evan Carlucci and Sean O'Reilly. Carlucci, a pure shooter, could carve out more playing time if the team needed instant offense.

Toby spoke in measured terms about this year's team. “This isn’t a star-driven roster, it’s a depth and versatility roster. We’ve got size to guard the paint, a couple wings who can stretch it, and young guards learning how to steer the ship. If the backcourt matures quickly, and we defend the way I think we can, this could be a tournament team.”

And it would be a team Toby and his staff had assembled themselves.

On the anniversary of their first date--eighteen years and half their lives ago--Toby slipped a folded piece of paper into Claire's purse, letting it stick out so she'd see it.


November 23, 1992
St. Michael’s College

Dear Toby,

I don’t usually write letters after a first date, but then again, I don’t usually go on dates that leave me smiling three days later. I just wanted to thank you for making Friday night feel so…easy. I was nervous (I’m sure you could tell—I talk too fast when I’m nervous), but you made me laugh, and I didn’t even notice the time passing until the Cloister Café lights flickered and they were hinting that we should leave.

What I keep replaying isn’t the movie or the cocoa, though—it’s how easy it was to talk to you. You ask questions in a way that makes me feel like you really want to know the answers. That’s rare. You have this way of listening that makes it feel like what I’m saying matters, even when it’s just something small. And it makes me want to tell you more.

I don’t know what comes next—exams, Christmas break, life in general—but I’d really like to see you again before we all scatter for the holidays. Maybe coffee at the little place near Church Street? The Elm & Ink, isn't it? I promise I won’t make you sit through another hour of me talking about books unless you want me to.

Anyway, I just wanted you to know I had a wonderful time, and that I hope Friday wasn’t the last.

Sincerely (and nervously),
Claire


It was the note she'd written him after that unforgettable evening. On the morning after one of the biggest victories of his coaching career, he thought about a moment he treasured even more.

Elmridge Gazette — January 7, 2011

Saints at the Crossroads: A Town Weighs In on St. Michael’s Hot Start

The non-conference slate is in the books, and St. Michael’s basketball sits at 13–3. A program-record preseason run in the NIT, including a takedown of then–#1 North Carolina State, has Old Town buzzing — and debating.

Junior guard Matt Caruso has become the Saints’ steadying star, pouring in points from everywhere on the floor. Senior center Brenner Turnbull continues to assert himself as the league’s most physical presence, punishing opponents who dare to try to score inside. And the surprise of December? Junior Joe Greeley, emerging as a 15-point-a-game scorer while continuing to rebound and defend.

But with point guard Jalen Wilson sidelined until late January after breaking his foot in the Creighton game, fans are split between belief and worry. Walking down Main Street in Old Town, you hear both.

Caruso’s playing like an All-American, and Turnbull’s a man among boys,” said Jake Daniels, a sophomore at St. Mike’s. “Greeley’s emergence changes everything. If Jalen comes back healthy, we’re as good as anybody.”

Maryellen Duffy, who runs a gift shop in Old Town, offered a cautionary note: “I just hope folks keep their expectations in check. Everyone’s already talking Sweet Sixteen. One bad shooting night, one whistle-happy ref, and all that dreaming goes up in smoke.”

Anthony Reyes, a junior, pointed to the loss column: “Thirteen wins looks shiny, but that Temple game? That showed we’re not all the way there. Elite teams don’t fold when the pressure’s on.”

Bill Kramer, a longtime Philly hoops watcher, nodded at the box scores: “Swarthmore’s ranked ahead of us in the mid-major poll for a reason. They don’t beat themselves. We’ve still got turnovers to clean up.”

Still, Darren McCloskey, a delivery driver, sees the glass half-full: “Look, you go 4–0 in the NIT, you beat NC State by double digits — that’s no fluke. These kids can play. With Caruso, Turnbull, and now Greeley, they’ve got a core that can scare anyone.”

For now, St. Michael’s holds the top record in the Centennial, but with Ursinus and Swarthmore--12-2 and 11-2 respectively--lurking, the conference grind will test whether this Saints team is a contender or just another December darling.

By the time the conference season got underway, Toby Whittaker and his staff had completed the Saints' incoming class of new recruits. Three high school seniors, all three-star players, would be joining the team in the fall of 2011.

Toby hoped to sign two big men and a wing. He and recruiter Charles Campbell took long looks at some four-star players from the Philadelphia area, players like Marcus Bradley, Jamal Robinson, and James Rawlins. None of them paid more than polite attention to the Saints' recruiting pitches. All three stayed close to home, but all three chose more prestigious programs. Bradley picked Temple; Robinson and Rawlins both selected St. Joseph's. Top 100 players like those weren't ready to pick a Centennial Conference school, not yet.

The Saints had much more luck with players in the next tier. The first to sign was Connor Del Vecchio, a 6'9" post player from La Salle College High School. Toby liked Connor's smooth lefty shooting stroke, his vision as a passer, and his basketball IQ. He wasn't a plus defender, but he wasn't negligent at that end of the floor, either.

The same day, Toby received a commitment from wing Chris Donnelly from Archbishop Carroll in nearby Radnor. Chris was 6'7", 210 pounds, with a college-ready frame. Campbell described him as "polished" and "versatile," a "high floor" prospect who could contribute in a variety of roles. Chris looked like he'd be a better shooter than Malik Jefferson, while Malik would be the more rugged defender.

In some ways, the most intriguing of the recruits was the last to sign. Isaiah Pritchard was, in assistant Ari Goldberg's words, "a real sleeper." Isaiah was tall (6'9") and lean (185 pounds). He was listed as a small forward, and he fit the "three-and-D" profile perfectly. However, Toby and his staff believed that, with work, Isaiah could learn to guard all five positions.

So, while the Saints' class lacked the star power a Top 100 player or two would have provided, Toby and his staff were very pleased with it. All three were from the area (Isaiah was a Main Line kid too, from Ardmore). All three were very good students who wouldn't need academic remediation (Connor was an especially fine student). All three could be projected as future starters (Chris would probably be the first to challenge for playing time).

And all three seemed like "St. Michael's men," the kind of student-athletes the College wanted to attract and nurture, on the court and off.

January 23, 2011

Whittaker Hits Century Mark as Saints Top Dickinson, 63–52
By Tate Keating, Gazette Sports Editor

ELMRIDGE — The numbers add up neatly now: 100 wins in less than four seasons, two Centennial Conference titles, two NCAA Tournament victories, and a program transformed. On Saturday night at The Pavilion, St. Michael’s head coach — and former Saints star — Toby Whittaker reached his 100th career victory as St. Michael’s handled Dickinson, 63–52, to improve to 17–4.

For those who remember Whittaker as the smooth-shooting guard who earned Centennial Conference Player of the Year honors in 1996, the milestone felt like a full-circle moment. “It’s home,” Whittaker said, reflecting after the game. “This place gave me everything when I was 18. To be back here with my own players, watching them succeed, that’s as good as it gets.”

Junior forward Joe Greeley delivered a career night, scoring 18 points with eight rebounds and two blocks, earning Player of the Game honors. “Coach always talks about imposing our will,” Greeley said. “Tonight we wanted to do that for him.”

Matt Caruso paced the Saints with 21 points, drilling four threes and picking apart Dickinson’s zone. Malik Jefferson chipped in 10 points and eight boards, while Brenner Turnbull anchored the back line defensively with three blocks.

The Saints controlled most of the evening, forcing Dickinson guard Silas Streit into a 4-for-16 shooting night.

Whittaker took over the program in 2007 and immediately put his stamp on it.

2007-08: Centennial regular season champions, a CBI run that ended in the final.

2008-09: Back-to-back conference crowns, capped by the school’s first NCAA Tournament win in six years.

2009-10: Another NCAA victory, cementing the Saints as a rising mid-major powerhouse.

Now, in just his fourth season, Whittaker sits at 100 career wins — a pace that rivals the most successful coaches in the conference’s history.

The Pavilion crowd knew the weight of the night. As the final horn sounded, students unfurled a hand-painted banner — “100 FOR TOBY” — and the old building shook with chants of “Saints! Saints!”

Outside O'Malley's Tavern, longtime fan Rick Devlin put it simply: “I watched Toby when he was running the point here in the ’90s, and now he’s the one calling the plays. He’s brought St. Michael’s back where it belongs.”

The century mark is in the books. For Whittaker and the Saints, the road ahead is about chasing something even bigger.

Fans React in St. Michael’s Village

After the game, the energy spilled from campus into St. Michael’s Village, the college-town hub of coffee shops, pubs, and late-night eateries.

At Maggie’s Deli, senior Emily Crane clutched her to-go cup and grinned. “We were freshmen when Coach Whittaker got here. Now he’s at 100 wins and we’ve been dancing in March two years in a row. It feels like we grew up with this team.”

Down the block at The Cloister Café, barista James O’Neill was wiping down counters but still buzzing from the night. “You could feel it in the gym,” he said. “It’s not just basketball, it’s the whole town. People want to be part of something, and Toby gave us that.”

Even at Pete’s Newsstand, where regulars linger over box scores, the milestone was the topic of choice. Retired history teacher Joan Gallagher shook her head with a smile. “I remember when Toby was just a skinny freshman guard running the floor here. Now he’s the face of the program. The Village is proud tonight.”

Scene: The Whittakers’ kitchen, February 10, 2011.

The house is quiet after dinner. The kids are in bed. The dishwasher hums softly, and Claire pours tea into two mugs while Toby leans against the counter, tie loosened from the postgame media session.

Claire: (handing him a mug) Another win. Twenty-two and four looks pretty nice, Coach.

Toby: (smiles, tired but proud) It does. But Ursinus losing tonight—that changes things. Franklin & Marshall did us a favor. We’re tied at the top again.

Claire: (raising her eyebrows) So it’s really a two-horse race now?

Toby: Exactly. Us and Ursinus. Both 8–1. They got us back in January--at The Pavilion, even--but we’re right there. If we keep defending the way we are, we’ll have a chance to control it.

Claire: (sipping tea) You mean that number four in the nation in scoring defense? I saw that note in the release.

Toby: (grinning) Not bad, huh? That’s the thing—I keep telling the guys: offense comes and goes, but if we make it ugly for people, we’ll always have a chance. We're playing defense the way I envisioned us doing now.

Claire: Jalen coming back really helped, didn’t it?

Toby: (nodding) Huge difference. You could feel the difference at Swarthmore the second he stepped on the floor. He steadies us. It's not Caleb's fault that we had to call on him before he was truly ready. Jalen knows when to push, when to pull back.

Claire: (softly teasing) Sounds like a coach’s son.

Toby: (laughs) Exactly. He’s not perfect—still figuring out how to score in this league, and he might never do that—but he's confident running our team.

Claire: And the guys trust him. You can see it.

Toby: They do. Matt and Joe, especially—they’ve been through enough battles to know how valuable that is. Brenner and Malik are getting looks, too. Jalen is keeping them all well-fed.

Claire: So… you’re not losing sleep over Ursinus?

Toby: (shakes his head, though his eyes betray the worry) I respect them. They’re tough, they’ve got depth. But I like where we are. The guys are buying in, we’re healthy again, and with our defense… we’re going to be in every game.

Claire: (smiles warmly, touching his hand) I know you, Toby. You’ll find something to lose sleep over.

Toby: (chuckling) Probably. But tonight? Tonight I’ll take the tie at the top of the standings, the win streak, and a cup of tea with my wife.

Claire leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder as the kitchen light glowed softly above them, the season’s tension hanging in the air but edged with hope.

Toby didn’t usually second-guess his decisions regarding player usage, because he made them so thoughtfully. He might ponder a change to his starting five for days before he made it…or discarded it as not being the right move. He was similarly thoughtful when he considered how the Saints’ reserves were employed.

In his first four years as a head coach, there was one player with whom he wondered if he’d been fair, about whom he wondered if he’d been too quick to judge. That player was Randolph Querry.

Randolph was part of Christian Huckaby’s last recruiting class at St. Michael’s, so he was a freshman during Toby’s first year on the job. He was a 6’8” post player from Wales with a low two-star recruiting pedigree, and he was as raw as could be when he arrived on campus. Still, Randolph was one of the few players on Toby’s first roster who was willing and able to play stout defense, so he was a very useful part of the rotation. He appeared in all 37 of the Saints’ games, averaging about ten minutes per contest.

As Toby recruited more players who fit his style, players with more defensive nous and a bit more offensive flair, Randolph’s playing time diminished. He barely played at all as a junior. Understandably, he was unhappy about this, but he enjoyed the rest of his experience at St. Michael’s very much. A capable student, Randolph majored in History, and he planned to do graduate work in Sports Management. His teammates enjoyed his wry sense of humor and his attempts to introduce them to Welsh cooking and slang. Toby noticed how he refused to take his frustrations about his playing time out on his teammates, and he treated the staff with respect. “That said something about the kind of man Randolph was,” Toby recalled.

Although the Saints had not yet clinched the Centennial Conference championship, Toby didn’t hesitate to promote Randolph to the starting lineup for his Senior Night game against Franklin & Marshall. The Welshman responded with a career game: 12 points, 7 rebounds, and a blocked shot. He nailed two of the three triples he attempted, and played defense like his jersey was on fire. The Saints won a rock fight, 59-52.

This got Toby thinking. Was it time to make amends?

[Scene: Late afternoon in the St. Michael’s basketball offices. The team has just finished practice. Toby, Carl Wilson (associate head coach), Charles Campbell (assistant), and Ari Goldberg (assistant) sit around the table with scouting reports, laptops, and notes.]

Toby: (leaning back in his chair) Alright, fellas. Let’s talk about Randolph. He gave us a great Senior Night — 12 and 7, plus that block, and his defense was rock solid. The question is, do we keep him in the starting five for the tournament, or go back to Malik?

Carl: (rubbing his chin) Malik’s been consistent. Athleticism, lots of length for a 6'6" guy, ability to run the floor — he’s a problem for teams that want to go small. But Randolph’s a grown man, and he’s not rattled in tight spots. You saw how steady he was against F&M.

Charles: (nodding) Yeah, RQ knows where to be. He might not fill up the box score every night, but he doesn’t hurt you. Screens, rebounds, being in the right spot defensively — that’s valuable. In tournament play, sometimes you need the guy who won’t flinch.

Ari: True, but we can’t ignore Malik’s ceiling. He’s given us some big minutes in tough games. He has the ability to break open a game in a way I’m not sure RQ can.

Toby: (sighing) Right, so it’s balance. Randolph’s steadiness versus Malik’s spark. One’s a senior who’s earned his shot, the other’s a sophomore who’s been a big part of why we’re here.

Carl: We could split the difference. Start Randolph — reward him, lean on his composure early — then bring Malik in quick, let him change the tempo. It doesn’t have to be either/or.

Charles: (grinning) Randolph’s not the kind of kid who’s going to pout if Malik closes. He just wants to fight with his teammates. And Malik’s got a good head on his shoulders. He’ll understand.

Ari: That might be the cleanest solution. Randolph sets the tone, Malik brings the punch. Keeps both engaged, and it honors what Randolph gave us on Senior Night.

Toby: (nodding slowly) I like that. Randolph in the starting five for the tournament. We keep Malik’s minutes strong, maybe even finish with him depending on the flow. That way we’ve got both ends covered — stability and energy.

Carl: Sounds right to me.

Charles: Same here.

Ari: Yeah. I’m on board.

Toby: (smiles, tapping the table) Good. Then that’s what we’ll do. Randolph starts. Malik plays big minutes. We’ll need both of them if we’re going to cut down nets.

[The coaches exchange nods, the decision made. The conversation shifts back to scouting Muhlenberg.]

[Scene: Coaches’ office, after the next evening’s practice. The gym is mostly quiet. Malik Jefferson knocks lightly on the open door. Toby smiles as Malik enters.]

Toby: Hey, Malik. C’mon in.

Malik: (sits down, relaxed but thoughtful) Hello, Coach. You asked to see me?

Toby: (leans back, studying him) I appreciate you coming by. I wanted to tell you something that’s not easy to say. I’ve decided to have Randolph start our first tournament game. It was a tough decision, because you’ve earned that starting spot this year. And you haven’t done anything wrong.

Malik: (shrugs) RQ’s a senior. He’s been here four years, put in the work. And honestly, he played his butt off on Senior Night. If starting him gives us the edge in the tournament, I’m all for it.

Toby: (smiles a little) You’ve got a good head on your shoulders. Not every underclassman would take it that way.

Malik: I just… I know my time’s coming. I’ll get my minutes. Maybe even close some games. And if this is what helps us win now? That’s what matters.

Toby: (nodding) You’re right about that. You’re still going to be a huge part of what we do — your energy, your versatility, the way you defend wings and guards. Randolph gives us size and steadiness at the start. You bring the punch.

Malik: (grins) Tag team. Old bull, young bull.
[They both laugh.]

Toby: Exactly. And Malik — the way you’ve handled this? That’s leadership. You might not wear the captain’s title yet, but this is how you build trust in a locker room.

Malik: (quietly proud) Thanks, Coach. I just want to win.

Toby: Then we’re on the same page.

[Both men stand, and Malik offers Toby a quick handshake. They clasp firmly — coach to player, but with mutual respect.]



[Scene: St. Michael’s locker room after practice, the night before the first game of the conference tournament. The players are toweling off, chatting. Toby calls out to the team.]

Toby: Fellas,listen up real quick.

[The chatter quiets. The players look up attentively. Randolph Querry sits on the bench, untying his sneakers. Malik Jefferson straightens up from leaning against his locker.]

Toby: First off, I want to say how proud I am of this group. You’ve played your tails off all season, and we’ve got ourselves a shot at something special. But tournaments are about details, about chemistry, about every man knowing his role.

[He pauses, looks at Randolph.]

Toby: Randolph, you’ve been steady for us. Senior Night, you came up big — 12 points, 7 boards, and you held down the paint. More than that, you’ve given us leadership, toughness, and a calm presence we’ll need in tournament play. You’re starting tomorrow.

[The locker room reacts with a couple of fist pumps and nods. Randolph blinks, taken aback, then straightens up.]

Randolph: (quiet, with a Welsh lilt) Coach… thank you. Means a lot. I’ll give you everything I’ve got.

[The players nearest him clap him on the back. Malik is the first to step forward.]

Malik: (grinning) Let’s go, big fella. We got your back. Doesn’t matter who starts — we’re in this together.

Randolph: (smiles, pats Malik’s shoulder) Appreciate that, mate. You’ll be flying in soon enough.

Toby: That’s exactly the spirit I want. Malik, you’re still going to play a huge role — maybe even close games depending on matchups. We’ll need your energy and versatility. Randolph gives us that steady start, and you bring the punch.

[The team nods in agreement. Toby looks around the room.]

Toby: This is what it’s about. No egos, just Saints basketball.

Brenner Turnbull: (nods, smiling softly) Everybody up.

[The players and coaches meet in the center of the locker room, forming a huddle.]

Brenner: Saints on three. One. Two. Three.

Team: (shouting) Saints!

[They break the huddle, clapping and cheering. Randolph steps back, soaking it in, a proud, almost humbled smile on his face.]

March 6, 2011


The Saints responded well to the challenges of the Centennial Conference tournament. Their first opponent, #8 seed Muhlenberg, slowed the pace down to a crawl, hoping to frustrate the more talented Saints. But Toby Whittaker's team had demonstrated on several occasions their ability to win those kinds of games: against Harvard, against Franklin & Marshall, twice against Dickinson.

The semifinal resembled a different sport. Matt Caruso lit up Haverford for 43 points, breaking a Saints single game scoring record that had been on the books for 36 years. Matt went 10-for-17 from behind the three-point arc.

The final was a rematch of 2010s instant classic: St. Michael's vs. Swarthmore. Once again, the Maroon fought the Saints hard for 40 minutes in the championship game. In fact, they led Toby's team by four points on three separate occasions, the last time with only seven minutes to play. But, in the end, players like Caruso, Joe Greeley, and Jalen Wilson were more than the Maroon could contain, and Brenner Turnbull and Greeley controlled the paint at both ends. Brenner blocked four shots and Greeley three, and the Saints lifted the trophy on the strength of a 74-67 win.

For Coach Whittaker and his team, it was the third straight tournament championship. Juniors Caruso, Greeley, and Sandy Fancher had never failed to win the tourney; neither had Turnbull, who redshirted during Toby's first season.

And the victory was especially sweet for Randolph Querry. He started all three games, playing a total of 77 minutes. In that time, he scored 30 points, including 12 in the semifinal, and he grabbed 20 rebounds. Malik Jefferson adjusted to his new role as sixth man like a pro; the sophomore scored 23 points and pulled in 14 rebounds himself.

The Saints didn't need to win the tournament to earn an NCAA berth, but as Brenner put it, "We wanted to enter the NCAAs as our league champion. We know we'll face tough games and tough opponents, and winning creates a mindset that will sustain us."

Elmridge Gazette
March 19, 2011

Caruso, Wilson Lead Saints Past San Jose State in NCAA Opener

By Daniel Harkins, Gazette Sports Desk

TAMPA, Fla. — March Madness has a way of testing the nerves of even the most seasoned teams. On Friday night in Florida, the St. Michael’s Saints passed that test.

With junior guard Matt Caruso drilling four three-pointers on his way to 21 points, and sophomore point guard Jalen Wilson playing with poise well beyond his years, the No. 5-seed Saints defeated No. 12–seed San Jose State, 70–62, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

The win gives St. Michael’s (31–4) a first-round victory in each of the last three seasons--a landmark for a team that is steadily building its reputation as one of the nation’s best mid-major programs. Next up: a second-round showdown with Cinderella candidate Mercer.

“This is what you dream about as a player,” Caruso said, grinning at the postgame podium. “March, the big stage, and your team counting on you. We weren’t perfect tonight, but we stuck together.”

Caruso was far from alone. Wilson, the coach’s son who grew up here in Elmridge, added 17 points and handled San Jose State’s full-court pressure with calm precision. His driving layup with 1:46 to go pushed the Saints’ lead to 65–59, effectively sealing the game.

Head coach Toby Whittaker, himself a former St. Michael’s star and the 1996 Centennial Conference Player of the Year, praised his team’s defensive effort. “We’re fourth in the nation in scoring defense for a reason,” Whittaker said. “Even when shots weren’t falling, our guys dug in and got stops.”

That defense held the Spartans (19–15) to 36 percent shooting from the floor. St. Michael’s also forced 16 turnovers, with senior forward Randolph Querry swiping three steals to go along with his 10 rebounds.

San Jose State was led by shooting guard William Cline, who poured in 22 points, but the Spartans never found consistent scoring outside of him.

Inside, Brenner Turnbull battled through double-teams to grab eight rebounds and block a shot, while Joe Greeley and reserve Sandy Fancher chipped in valuable minutes and combined for 14 points and 12 rebounds.

It was, fittingly, Caruso’s night. The junior captain hit two threes in the opening five minutes and closed the game at the line. When the horn sounded, he turned toward the large contingent of Saints fans who had made the trip from Pennsylvania, raising his arms in triumph.

“It feels like half of Elmridge is here,” Caruso said with a laugh. “We heard them the whole way.”


Fans React in St. Michael’s Village

Back home in St. Michael’s Village, the college-town neighborhood was buzzing. At The Cloister Café, students in Saints jerseys cheered each of Caruso’s buckets as the game aired on big screens.

“He’s been here three years, and he’s always come through for us,” said senior Emily DeAngelis. “Matt deserves this moment.”

At O’Malley’s Tavern, locals spoke with pride about Wilson’s clutch play. “That’s Carl’s boy,” said longtime resident Al Sanders. “You watch him out there, and you just know he’s the future of this program.”

The win keeps the Saints dancing, and for one more night at least, March Madness runs through Elmridge.

Elmridge Gazette
March 20, 2011

Caruso, Wilson Push Saints into Sweet 16

By Daniel Harkins, Gazette Sports Desk

TAMPA, Fla. — For only the second time in program history, St. Michael’s is headed to the Sweet 16.

Behind a clutch performance from junior guard Matt Caruso and the steady floor leadership of sophomore Jalen Wilson, the fifth-seeded Saints outlasted No. 13 Mercer, 79–65, in the NCAA South Regional on Sunday night.

Caruso poured in 20 points, knocking down four threes and going a perfect 4-for-4 at the line in the closing minutes. Wilson added 16 points and five assists, attacking the lane and keeping the Saints’ offense humming against Mercer’s swarming pressure.

“Matt and Jalen were terrific,” said head coach Toby Whittaker. “They made big shots, but more importantly, they made the right plays. That’s what you need in March.”

The Saints (32–4) built a nine-point halftime lead, but Mercer (22–12) refused to go away. Wing Donald Barboza was nearly unstoppable, scoring 23 points and pulling down 11 rebounds. When guard Jon Griffis buried a corner three to make it 60–56 with 7:08 left, the Bears’ fans roared and momentum seemed to tilt.

But St. Michael’s responded like the veteran team it has become. Caruso sank a three from the top of the arc, Wilson followed with a driving layup, and senior forward Randolph Querry added his third three of the night from the wing. In the span of 90 seconds, the Saints’ lead ballooned back to double digits.

“That’s who we are,” Caruso said afterward. “We don’t panic. We trust each other.”

Inside, Brenner Turnbull battled relentlessly, finishing with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and an emphatic four blocked shots. Fellow big man Joe Greeley matched him with 12 points of his own, while Querry contributed 11 to help extend his Saints career. Sophomore sixth man Malik Jefferson chipped in 8 points in 18 key minutes.

St. Michael’s shot 10-of-19 from behind the arc, their balance proving too much for a Mercer team that hit 11 threes of its own but couldn’t keep pace defensively.

That matchup comes with extra intrigue: back in November, St. Michael’s stunned the college basketball world by defeating the then-third ranked Wolfpack, 81–63, in the finals of the Preseason NIT at Madison Square Garden.

“That was a long time ago,” Whittaker said, careful not to let his players rest on past laurels. “They’ve gotten better, and so have we. March is a whole different season. But our guys know they can play with anybody.”

For St. Michael’s, it will be only their second appearance in the Sweet Sixteen — the first coming back in 2002.


Fans in Elmridge React

On College Street, the streets outside The Cloister Café and O’Malley’s Tavern filled quickly as word spread of the victory. Students and alumni spilled out in Saints jerseys, chanting “Sweet Sixteen” into the night.

“It feels like a dream,” said sophomore Hannah Morales. “We’ve always believed in this team, but to see them do it — it’s incredible.”

At Angelo's Pizza, the Wilson family’s regular postgame spot, the televisions replayed Jalen’s layup that pushed the Saints’ lead late. “That kid’s going to be a legend here,” said owner Tony DeLuca. “And he’s just getting started.”

Philadelphia Inquirer
March 26, 2011

St. Michael’s Stuns No. 1 NC State, Marches Into Elite Eight

By Mike Jensen, Inquirer Staff Writer

NEW ORLEANS — The little Catholic college from the Main Line just knocked out the nation’s No. 1 team.

St. Michael’s 66, North Carolina State 55.

It wasn’t a fluke, either. For the second time this season, the Saints handled the Wolfpack — just as they did in November at Madison Square Garden. Only this time, the stakes were infinitely higher: a spot in the Elite Eight, the deepest NCAA Tournament run in school history.

“We weren’t intimidated then, and we weren’t intimidated tonight,” said head coach Toby Whittaker, his voice hoarse but steady. “Our guys have believed all year that they could play with anybody. They proved it again.”

The Saints (33–4) dictated tempo from the start, defending with discipline and pounding the ball inside. Junior forward Joe Greeley was the difference-maker, scoring 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting and grabbing four rebounds. He bullied NC State’s front line, earning Player of the Game honors.

“We wanted to attack their bigs,” Greeley said. “I knew if I kept working, the openings would come.”

Senior center Brenner Turnbull controlled the glass, pulling down 13 rebounds and swatting three shots. “That’s Brenner,” Whittaker said. “He’s been our anchor all year. No, fix that. All three years he's been here."

On the perimeter, Matt Caruso shook off a cold start to score 16 points, hitting four three-pointers, while sophomore point guard Jalen Wilson orchestrated the offense with poise, finishing with eight points and six assists.

Defensively, St. Michael’s smothered the Wolfpack (34–3). Sharpshooter Thomas Henry managed just three points on 1-for-7 shooting. Star forward Normand Branch, a likely professional lottery pick, went scoreless in 30 minutes, neutralized by a rotating cast of Greeley, Turnbull, senior Randolph Querry, and sophomore Malik Jefferson.

“They pushed us out of what we like to do,” NC State coach Mark Guerin admitted. “We didn’t get clean looks, and when we did, we didn’t hit them.”

The Wolfpack’s frustration showed: they committed nine turnovers, missed ten of their thirteen three-point attempts, and shot just 35 percent from the field.

By contrast, the Saints, while not flawless, executed when it mattered. A Wilson free throw gave them a double-digit lead with 4:12 to play. Caruso’s dagger three from the right wing made it 61–49 with 2:38 left, and the New Orleans crowd — with plenty of Saints fans who had made the trip south — erupted.

From there, it was a countdown to history.

“We talked in the huddle about leaving it all on the floor,” Caruso said. “Nobody wanted to go home.”
St. John's vs. Kentucky. For a program that only once before (2002) reached the Sweet Sixteen, the significance is hard to overstate.

Back on campus in Elmridge, students flooded St. Michael’s Village, chanting “S-A-I-N-T-S!” and waving flags down College Avenue. Local taverns and coffee shops were packed with alumni and townspeople who lingered long into the night.

“We’ve all been waiting for this,” said Saints freshman guard Desmond Lee, who chipped in four points off the bench. “But we’re not done yet.”

For now, though, St. Michael’s has authored the upset of March. The tiny school that few outside the region knew three years ago has just beaten the No. 1 team in America. Again.

And this time, the whole country noticed.

Philadelphia Inquirer – March 28, 2011

St. Michael’s stuns St. John’s, reaches first Final Four

By Kevin Tatum | Inquirer Staff Writer

NEW ORLEANS – When St. Michael’s head coach Toby Whittaker gave senior forward Randolph Querry a ceremonial start on his Senior Night earlier this month, no one imagined it would turn into one of the defining lineup decisions of the Saints’ historic season.

Querry, a 6-foot-8 Welshman whose four years in navy and gold have been defined by grit more than glamour, has started every game since, and he rewarded his coach's faith again on Sunday. Querry poured in 13 points, hit three three-pointers, and set the defensive tone as St. Michael’s toppled second-seeded St. John’s, 59–46, in the NCAA South Regional final.

With the win, the Saints (34–4) earned their first trip to the Final Four, adding to a run that already includes November’s rout of then-No. 1 NC State and a string of tournament upsets.

“This is a dream I never thought I’d see through,” Querry said, his voice breaking as he stood amid a jubilant huddle of teammates. “Four years ago, I was just hoping to fit in. Now we’re headed to Houston.”

A defensive masterpiece

The Saints locked down the Red Storm (29–6), holding them to 34 percent shooting and just 18 second-half points. Senior forward Joe Greeley posted 12 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks, earning Player of the Game honors. Junior Matt Caruso matched Querry with 13 points, including a late three that iced the game, while sophomore point guard Jalen Wilson contributed 10 points and six clutch free throws.

“Every possession was a battle,” Whittaker said. “But Randolph gave us a spark, Joe anchored us inside, and our guards finished it off. That’s our formula.”

Storm silenced, Pickel bows out

For St. John’s, the loss marked a bitter end to a banner season and the closing chapter of David Pickel’s long coaching career. Pickel, who announced in February that he would retire at season’s end, watched his team turn it over 15 times and struggle to find rhythm against the Saints’ physical defense.

“We just couldn’t break them down,” Pickel said. “That group deserves everything they’re getting. They’re tough, disciplined, and they believe in each other. It’s hard for me to go out like this, but I tip my cap.”

Leading scorer Arthur Pitzer managed 11 points, while forward David Wimer was limited to just two.

Philly school, national stage

As the final buzzer sounded, Saints fans in navy and gold stormed the lower bowl of the Superdome, chanting “Final Four” as players embraced on the court. For a small Catholic school from the Philadelphia suburbs, it was the culmination of decades of striving for legitimacy on the national stage.

“This is for everybody back home,” Greeley said, clutching the South Regional trophy. “We’ve been building toward this. Now the whole country knows who St. Michael’s is.”

The Saints will face Maryland, the winner of the West Regional final, in Houston.

For Querry and his classmates, there’s one more week to stretch the dream.

CollegeHoopsNow.com feature

St. Michael’s Cruises Past Maryland, 73-58, Into First National Championship Game

Houston, TX — April 2, 2011

St. Michael’s has officially arrived on college basketball’s biggest stage. In a commanding display of poise and teamwork, Saints toppled Maryland, 73-58, in the South Regional semifinal at the Toyota Center on Saturday, punching their ticket to the program’s second-ever Final Four.

The Saints, wearing their home white uniforms, imposed their tempo early, using stifling defense and smart ball movement to keep the more traditional powerhouse Maryland off balance. St. Michael’s, which entered the NCAA Tournament as a 5 seed, showcased why they’ve been a respected Division I program for years, blending experience, youth, and a fearless mentality.

“We knew Maryland had talent and history, but our guys played with confidence and discipline,” said coach Toby Whittaker, a former Saints star who played in a single NCAA tournament game in 1995. “Every player contributed. That’s what great teams do in March.”


Jalen Wilson Shines

Point guard Jalen Wilson, a sophomore, led the way with 20 points and seven assists, controlling the tempo and hitting three clutch three-pointers. Wilson’s leadership and composure under pressure earned him the game’s Player of the Game honors.

“Jalen was fantastic,” Whittaker said. “He made the right reads, knocked down shots when we needed them, and set the tone defensively. That’s what a true floor general does.”


Balanced Attack

Junior Matt Caruso added 16 points, with four rebounds and five assists, while sixth man Malik Jefferson chipped in 15 points, hitting key perimeter shots. Joe Greeley scored 9 points while grabbing 10 rebounds. Even role players like Desmond Lee and Sandy Fancher provided timely contributions, keeping Maryland from gaining any momentum.

Maryland kept pace through the first half thanks to Arden Bauman’s 25 points, but St. Michael’s tightened its defense after the break, holding the Terrapins to just 25 second-half points and forcing turnovers at critical moments. Bauman was the only Maryland player to score in double figures.


Maryland Coach Reacts

Gale Chitwood, coaching Maryland in what he called “a tough matchup against a hot, disciplined team,” praised the Saints. “St. Michael’s played with intelligence and confidence. They executed their game plan perfectly. We had chances, but they made the plays when it mattered.”


Fans React in Old Town Elmridge

Back home in Elmridge, fans celebrated the Saints’ triumph.

“They’ve been building this program for years, and you can see it on the court,” said Phoebe McAlister, owner of a coffee shop in Old Town. “The teamwork, the defense, the composure—it’s inspiring.”

High school math teacher and longtime Elmridge resident Tony Greco added, “I’ve watched these kids grow up, and to see them take down a program like Maryland? It’s unbelievable. They’re making history.”

College student and Saints supporter Mariah Benton said, “I’ve never been more proud. Brenner [Turnbull] and Jalen and Matt and the whole team—they just don’t quit. You can feel the energy in the city already.”

Looking Ahead

With the victory, the Saints earn the chance to play Connecticut for the national championship. For a program long respected in Division I circles but rarely spotlighted nationally, the win over Maryland cements their reputation as a legitimate contender for the national title.

“Our guys have dreamed about this since the first day of practice,” Whittaker said. “We’re going to enjoy tonight, but we know there’s more basketball to be played. We’re not done yet.”

April 4, 2011

Toby Whittaker had spent the morning in meetings, pacing between film sessions and a light shootaround. By early afternoon, he ducked back into the Saints’ team hotel in Houston, carrying his worn leather notebook, still muttering about Connecticut’s ball screens. The lobby buzzed with fans in navy and gold, a small pocket of Elmridge having traveled south to witness history.

He barely noticed the family standing by the fountain at first. A woman’s voice called softly:

“Toby.”

He turned—and froze. Claire was there, smiling, her hair pulled back, travel-tired but radiant. Beside her stood Nora, taller than he’d last held in his mind, and Grace, clutching a Saints pennant she must have bought at the arena store. Eli hung on to his mother’s hand, eyes wide at the hotel’s chandeliers.

For a beat, Toby didn’t move. He just stared, notebook still in his grip, as if his family had stepped right out of a dream.

Then the notebook fell to his side. He quickly picked it up, and he crossed the lobby in three long strides. Claire laughed as he pulled her into his arms, then stooped to wrap the kids in, too.

“What—what are you all doing here?” Toby’s voice cracked as he looked from one to the next.

Claire gave him that knowing look. “Did you really think we’d let you coach for a national championship without us?”

Nora grinned. “Surprise, Dad. We got in this morning.”

Grace waved the pennant. “We’re gonna cheer so loud you’ll hear us from the bench.”

Eli piped up shyly, “I wore a Saints shirt.” He pulled open his jacket to show the navy and gold.

Toby blinked hard and pressed a hand over his face, trying not to let the lobby see him tear up. “You don’t know what this means,” he said, finally finding his voice. “Having you here. Today of all days.”

Claire touched his arm gently. “We know exactly what it means.”

For the first time in weeks, the tightness in Toby’s chest eased. Surrounded by Claire and the kids, the game ahead suddenly felt less daunting. He wasn’t just a coach walking into the biggest night of his career. He was a husband and a father, grounded by the people who knew him best.

They lingered in the lobby, fans and players stealing glances, until Toby finally laughed and said, “All right, I’ve got to get upstairs before the staff thinks I’ve vanished. But tonight—you’ll be right there with me.”

Nora nudged him with a smile. “We wouldn’t miss it.”

April 4, 2011, not long before tipoff


The Saints’ locker room in Houston hummed with nervous energy. Sneakers squeaked against tile, tape crinkled, and the air carried the faint tang of sweat and Gatorade. Players laced, stretched, bounced on their toes, waiting for Toby Whittaker’s words.

He stood in the center, hands in his pockets for a moment, looking around at his team. Matt Caruso was rolling his shoulders, headphones pulled down around his neck. Jalen Wilson dribbled an invisible ball in rhythm, eyes locked on some faraway rim. Brenner Turnbull leaned against his locker, calm but taut like a spring.

“Fellas,” Toby began, voice steady, “you’ve heard me talk about family all year. About how this thing we’ve built isn’t just a team, it’s a brotherhood. Something bigger than us.”

He paused, scanning the room. “But today… I got a reminder of what that really means.”

The players stilled, eyes on him.

“This afternoon, when I walked into the hotel lobby, my wife and kids were waiting for me. They came down here, surprised me, just to be with us for this moment. I can’t tell you how much that hit me. Because it reminded me—this game, this stage, it isn’t about pressure. It isn’t about fear. It’s about the people you do it for.”

Toby’s voice grew firmer. “You all have those people—your families, your friends, this school, this town back in Elmridge. And tonight, you’re playing for them. You’re playing for each other. That’s what will carry us through.”

He stepped closer to the players, lowering his tone. “Connecticut? They’re good. They’re tough. But do they have this? Do they have the bond in this room, or the fight we’ve shown since November? Remember who we are. Remember what we’ve done to get here.”

Then he raised his hand, signaling for the team to come together. “One last thing. My little girl Grace said she was gonna cheer so loud I’d hear her from the bench. So let’s make sure she—and everybody else who came here for us—gets a reason to cheer.”

The players surged in, hands stacked, eyes blazing.

Randolph Querry's voice rose. “Family on three,” he called out.

“ONE, TWO, THREE—FAMILY!”

The locker room shook with the roar, and Toby felt his chest swell. For the first time all tournament, he wasn’t just coaching with X’s and O’s—he was coaching with his heart, fueled by the family that had found him when he needed it most.

April 4, 2011

If this were a Hollywood movie, the gritty, likeable underdogs from St. Michael's would complete their magical season with an upset of the mighty Connecticut Huskies in the national championship game. The Saints nearly wrote a storybook ending for themselves; it took 45 minutes of basketball for the Huskies to prevail, but prevail they did, by an 83-79 score.

The game was rugged and edgy. Both teams defended stoutly, forcing their opponents to take shots they didn't want to take. UConn's Tory Islas, who led all scorers with 26 points and was named Player of the Game, made only one of his three-point tries. St. Michael's leading scorer, Joe Greeley, scored almost half his 18 points from the line.

Both teams led by as many as six points. UConn was ahead 28-22 in the first half, and St. Michael's took a 60-54 lead on a Matt Caruso three-ball with 6:08 remaining. The Huskies fought back, and tied the score, 70-70, on a pair of free throws by David Dillman with 2:08 remaining in regulation. Nobody knew it then, but those would be the final points of the second half. St. Michael's last chance to win the game passed them by when they turned the ball over, and UConn's Islas misfired on a long three as time ran out.

Malik Jefferson, who had played his sixth man role so well all evening long, fouled out early in the extra period. Greeley had also been disqualified by then, so Toby Whittaker called on freshman Trevor McMillan, who had played only two minutes all night, pairing him with Brenner Turnbull to form a Twin Towers package. Trevor scored five of the Saints' nine points in overtime, including an old-fashioned three-point play.

"We had a few chances to keep the game alive," remembered assistant Carl Wilson. "But there was no single moment that won the game for them, or lost it for us. We proved we belonged on that stage tonight. That's what we're going to take away from this."

At the final buzzer, Toby Whittaker looked behind the Saints bench, spotting his wife and children. Tears glistened in his eyes, and he managed a smile that Claire mirrored, as she held the hands of her daughters. Nora had her arm around her younger brother. Years later, that would be the moment Toby would remember most from that night.

Toby sipped from a water bottle as he talked with the media after the game. His hair was tousled, and his face wore the marks of a long game and a long season. Here's what he said to the press:


On the game itself:
“That was forty-five minutes of basketball at the highest level. It was rugged, it was ugly at times, and it was beautiful at times. Our kids never flinched. They went toe-to-toe with Connecticut and put themselves in position to win a national championship. We just came up one or two possessions short.”

On UConn’s performance:
“Credit to them — they made the plays in overtime. Tory Islas is as good as advertised. You hold him to one three-pointer and he still finds a way to score 26. That’s what great players do.”

On his team’s effort:
“We talk about toughness and family. You saw both of those tonight. Joe [Greeley] playing through foul trouble, Matt [Caruso] hitting big shots, Malik [Jefferson] coming in and changing the game before he fouled out. And then a freshman like Trevor [McMillan], who hadn’t been in that spot all year, comes in and gives us a spark in the national title game. That tells you everything about the heart in that locker room.”

On the pain of the loss:
“This hurts. It’s supposed to hurt. You don’t pour yourself into something for five months, get to this stage, and lose in overtime without feeling it. But I told the guys — don’t let that scoreboard define what we accomplished. St. Michael’s was on the last Monday night of the season. That’s forever.”

On his seniors:
“I wish I’d had a chance to get John [Markel] out there one more time, but just having him with us through this run mattered. He's in that walking boot, and he simply couldn't move well enough to play. Randolph [Querry], Brenner [Turnbull], Ernie [Elsam] — they’ll be Saints forever. They leave a legacy. They showed that our little school can play with anybody.”

On what this run means for the program:
“The thing about tonight is, I don’t think it’s the end of a story. I think it’s the beginning. This program isn’t going away. We’ll be back on this stage. And when we are, maybe we’ll finish the job.”


Three Saints players also took time to talk with the media.

Matt Caruso, junior guard

On what he’ll remember most:
“That moment when I hit the three to put us up six — I thought we had it. You could feel the energy shift. But the thing I’ll never forget isn’t the shot, it’s looking around the huddle in overtime and realizing how much I trusted every guy in there. We weren’t supposed to be here, and we were four minutes from winning it all. That’s something I’ll carry with me.”

On UConn’s defense:
“They made everything tough. Every cut, every catch, there was a body on you. But that’s the kind of game we like too. It was a fight, and we gave them everything.”


Joe Greeley, junior forward

On fouling out late:
“That’s the worst feeling in the world — sitting there helpless in overtime. I wanted one more chance to make a play. But that’s basketball. I’m proud of how Trevor stepped in, and how everyone kept battling. This group never quits.”

On the pain of the loss:
“It hurts. We were right there. But this isn’t the end of the story. We’ve got a lot of guys coming back, including me, and we’re going to build on this. Next year starts tomorrow.”


Jalen Wilson, sophomore point guard

On playing on the biggest stage:
“It felt huge during warmups and pregame. But once the ball went up, it was just basketball. I had nerves before tip, but Coach always says trust the work, and I did. We didn’t win, but we showed we belong here.”

On looking ahead:
“This isn’t the last time St. Michael’s is going to be in this game. That’s what I believe. We’ve got something special building. I want to help finish what we started tonight.”


Fan reactions back in Elmridge:


At O'Malley's Tavern, where a crowd of nearly 200 had gathered around every TV in sight, the final horn brought a hush — and then a long, loud ovation.

“They didn’t lose. They just ran out of time,” said Maureen Kelly, a retired teacher who taught Jalen Wilson pre-algebra in seventh grade. “Those boys gave us a season we’ll never forget.”

Darryl Jackson, a local barber, shook his head but smiled. “Four points in overtime against UConn? That's strong. They played their hearts out. Nobody in this town’s hanging their head.”

At Del Vecchio's, 12-year-old Liam O’Shea still had his face painted navy and gold. “I thought Trevor’s three-point play was gonna win it,” he said, his voice breaking a little. “I just… I just wanted them to get the trophy.”

Ellen Ramirez, whose family has had Saints season tickets for three generations, summed it up with tears in her eyes: “We all wanted the fairytale ending. But you know what? This story is even better. Because it’s real. Because it’s ours.”

Assistant Coach Ari Goldberg’s Analysis of St. Michael’s Stat Report

“Here’s what the numbers told me. We weren’t smoke and mirrors anymore. We were a top-10 team because we guarded like maniacs and made people miserable.

Defensively, it was off the charts. Opponents scored 58.6 points a night, third-best in the country, and shot 38%. That wasn’t an accident—that was discipline, toughness, and five guys moving on a string. Add in the rebounding margin—we grabbed over five more boards a night—and nobody got comfortable against us.

Offensively, we weren’t a fireworks show, but we were efficient. Nearly 46% from the floor, almost 37% from three, and 75% at the line. That adjusted field goal percentage—top-20 nationally—that was how we won games in March. We stretched defenses, we made free throws, and when teams slipped, we buried them.

Our shot-blocking? Best in the country at 6.4 a game. That was intimidation. Brenner, Joe, the bigs—they made guys rethink driving into the paint. And that foul margin—plus-4 per game. We were disciplined, the other team wasn’t so much. Simple math.

Now, what drove me nuts: turnovers and offensive boards. We gave it away 14 times a night. Fourteen. That was basically a box of free donuts for the other guy every game. We also didn’t crash the offensive glass hard enough. We were elite everywhere else, but there was room to squeeze two or three more possessions a night. That was the difference between cutting down nets and watching someone else do it.

Bottom line? We weren’t Cinderella. We weren’t underdogs. The numbers said we belonged. The only thing we had to fear was ourselves—mainly our butterfingers.”

The vote for PotY had to have been close. James Bisson and Matt Caruso were both versatile wings who impacted the game in many ways. It's hard to argue against the eventual winner.

Brenner Turnbull's career deserves a closer look. He was a three-time All-Centennial Conference first team selection; Toby Whittaker earned this honor, but I'm not sure how many others did so. It's not a long list.

Brenner was a god-tier classic big man. His 356 career blocked shots is not only over 100 more than anyone else in St. Michael's history; it's the career record for the Centennial Conference. And Brenner did this in three years, not four. Each of those three seasons ranks among the top four in school history. Had the big man from Tennessee played another season, he almost certainly would have broken the St. Michael's and Centennial Conference career records for rebounding, too. I thought Brenner might get good news on Draft Night, but his name wasn't called.

I hope we see another like him, but I'm not counting on it.

James Reinhart's guidance of Ursinus to a spectacular season and an NCAA at-large tournament berth was a big deal. He thereby took the Coach of the Year award from a man who led his team to the national final. :)



A slew of three-star players were poised to make their Centennial Conference debuts in the fall of 2011. St. Michael's haul of three such players ranked them ahead of Haverford's, with Connor Del Vecchio predicted to be the most impactful.

May 2011

The coaches of successful mid-major programs often get chances to prove they have what it takes at the next level. Such was the case in the spring of 2011, when Toby and a member of his staff received intriguing job offers.

North Carolina State coach Mark Guerin announced his retirement at the end of the season. Coach Guerin was a titan of the coaching world, with a total of 763 career victories that ranked second only to the legendary Gale Lines' 1052. The Wolfpack came calling for the young coach who had beaten them twice. Toby's reply was polite, but decisive. He was staying right where he was. That's also what he told St. John's, when they offered him the opportunity to succeed David Pickel.

And then, associate head coach Carl Wilson received some news.


Scene: Toby Whittaker’s office, The Pavilion, May 2011. The season is long over, the gym is quiet, and the late afternoon sun filters through the blinds. A half-finished cup of coffee sits on the table between them.

Toby: (leaning back, smiling faintly) So. Hartford, huh? They really came calling.

Carl: (nodding, almost sheepish) Yeah. Official offer this morning. Head coach. Division I, America East. It’s the kind of chance you work for your whole career. But leaving here? Leaving what we’ve built? That’s not an easy call.

Toby: (leans forward) You know as well as I do — this is already a good program. We’ve been dancing in March, we’ve got kids lined up who want to wear this jersey. You’re a huge part of that. Hartford knows it. That’s why they want you.

Carl: (half-smiles) And that’s why it’s hard. I’m not just leaving a job. I’d be leaving a contender. You’ve got us knocking on the door of something special here, Tob.

Toby: (quiet for a moment) I’ll be honest. I don’t want you to go. Not because I’m worried about us — we’ll be fine — but because you’re my friend. We started this thing together, and we’ve made it work.

Carl: (softly) I couldn’t ask for a better partner in this. You took a chance on me, and it changed everything.

Toby: (grins) If you stay, we keep building something big right here. If you go, you finally get the chair you’ve earned. Either way, you win. And I’ll back you a hundred percent.

Carl: (voice catches a little) My kids feel at home here. Jalen especially. He’s been running around this gym for years.

Toby: (laughs) He’s still got a locker here if he wants it. And if you’re in Hartford when he’s ready, you know we’ll play fair. But Carl — don’t let him be the reason you say no. This is your call, not his.

Carl: (nodding, thoughtful) Yeah. You’re right. It just means a lot, hearing you say that.

Toby: (reaches out, pulls Carl into a hug) Whatever you decide — you’re family. And if you’re wearing Hartford blue next fall, I’ll still be checking the box scores every night.

Carl: (manages a smile) Guess I can’t lose, huh?

Toby: Not a chance.

Later that evening, 55 Orchard Street

Claire: (setting two mugs of tea on the table) You look like you’ve been carrying a weight around all day.

Toby: (sighs, rubbing his forehead) Carl got the offer. Head job at Hartford.

Claire: (sits down, surprised but not shocked) Oh. Wow. That’s… that’s a big deal for him.

Toby: It is. He deserves it. He’s put in the work, he’s brilliant with the game. But selfishly? I don’t want him to go.

Claire: (tilts her head, gentle) Because he’s your assistant, or because he’s your friend?

Toby: Both. We’ve built this thing together. He’s the X-and-O brain that keeps us sharp. And—he’s Carl. He’s been with me through every step of this run. You don’t just replace that.

Claire: (nods slowly) You knew this might happen, though. With the success the program’s had, people notice.

Toby: (half-smiles) Yeah, I did. Doesn’t make it easier. I tried to tell him he should do what’s best for him, but part of me wanted to say, “Stay. Stay and let’s see how far we can take this.”

Claire: (reaches across the table, touches his hand) You’ve always said you wanted to build a program that lifted people up, not held them back. If Carl’s ready, then that’s the next step for him.

Toby: (quietly) I know. I just hate the thought of losing that connection. The way he sees the game—he’s two steps ahead, always. And Jalen… he’s practically grown up in our gym.

Claire: (smiling softly) Jalen might want to stay where he's played for two years. And Carl isn’t disappearing off the face of the earth. Hartford isn’t that far.

Toby: (chuckles, finally taking a sip of tea) True. We’ll probably end up playing them in a non-conference game sooner or later.

Claire: (teasing) And you’d want to beat him, wouldn’t you?

Toby: (grinning now) Absolutely. But only because I respect him.

Claire: (squeezes his hand) Then tell him that. Tell him you want him here, but if he goes, you’ll still be proud. That’s what he needs to hear.

Toby: (softly, after a pause) You always know how to put things in perspective.

Claire: (smiling warmly) That’s my job. Yours is to coach basketball.

Toby Whittaker's office, The Pavilion

(The office door creaks open. Jalen Wilson leans in, wearing a St. Michael's Basketball quarter-zip and khakis.

Jalen: Coach, you got a minute?

Toby: (looks up from a stack of papers, smiles) Always. Come in, Jalen. Please sit down.

(Jalen sits across from him, a little restless, tapping his fingers against his knee.)

Jalen: I just wanted to… clear something up. I know with my dad getting that Hartford offer, people probably figure I’m gone too. But I’m not. I’m staying.

Toby: (raises his eyebrows, surprised but steady) You’ve thought this through?

Jalen: Yeah. And it’s not just about Dad. Look, I love him, and I’m proud he’s got this shot. But St. Michael’s—it feels like home. I grew up in these gyms, around this program. It’s not just a place, it’s family.

Toby: (leans forward, voice softer) That means a lot to hear, Jalen.

Jalen: Plus… I believe in what we’re building here. We’ve already made noise in the tournament, and we’re not done yet. I want to be part of that. I want to help take this team even further. If I leave now, it feels like running away from something we started.

Toby: (nodding slowly, absorbing it) And you’ve talked about this with your dad?

Jalen: Yeah. He told me he’d support me no matter what. Honestly, I think he’s proud I’m making my own call. He knows this is where I want to be.

Toby: (smiles, a little moved) That’s a sign of maturity, Jalen. Most players your age, they follow the easier path. You’re choosing your own.

Jalen: (shrugs, but grins) Guess I learned from watching you two. You and Dad both—loyalty matters. And so does finishing what you start.

(A pause. Toby leans back in his chair, letting out a long breath, then stands and pats Jalen on the shoulder.)

Toby: Then I’m glad you’re with us. And I promise, whatever happens with your dad, this program will always have your back.

Jalen: (smiles, relieved) Thanks, Coach. That’s what I needed to know.

The Wilson home, later that evening


(Carl sits at the kitchen table, Hartford paperwork spread out. Jalen walks in after a late workout, towel around his neck.)

Jalen: You’re still at it?

Carl (half-smile): Hard to turn the coach’s brain off. Hartford’s not a small move.

Jalen (sits across from him): I know. That’s why I wanted to tell you something. Coach Whittaker already knows, but I wanted to say it to you myself, too. I’m staying at St. Michael’s.

Carl (raises eyebrows): You sure about that? You’d have every reason to follow me if I left.

Jalen (shakes head): I’ve thought a lot about it. Brenner’s graduating, and that changes things. Next year, it’s on guys like me and Matt and Greeley to set the tone. If I left now, it’d feel like walking away from everything we’ve been building.

Carl (leaning in, listening closely): Go on.

Jalen: I want to win here. With Caruso, with Greeley, with Malik. This is our shot to prove we can carry it forward. And honestly, I need to prove—to myself and everyone else—that I’m more than the coach’s kid. Staying here, stepping into that role… that’s mine.

(Carl sits back, eyes softening. He nods slowly.)

Carl: You’re not just making a basketball decision. That’s leadership.

Jalen (quiet smile): Maybe. But it feels right.

(Carl reaches across the table, rests a hand on Jalen’s shoulder.)

Carl: No matter what happens with me, Hartford or St. Michael’s, you’ve already made the right call. You’re ready for that responsibility.

Jalen (softly): Thanks, Dad.

(Carl glances at the Hartford paperwork, then back at his son, pride flickering behind the weariness in his eyes. For once, the decision in front of him doesn’t feel so heavy.)

Elmridge Gazette
June 10, 2011

Wilson Named Head Coach at Hartford; Son Jalen Stays True to Saints

By Mark Hanley, Gazette Staff Writer

ELMRIDGE — For Carl Wilson, the longtime St. Michael’s assistant, the dream has arrived. On Friday, the University of Hartford introduced Wilson as its new head men’s basketball coach.

For his son Jalen, the Saints’ starting point guard, the news changes little.

“I love my dad, and I’m proud of him,” Jalen said in a statement. “But my place is here. I came to St. Michael’s to play for this school, for this town, and for my teammates. That hasn’t changed. I’m excited to keep building on what we’ve started.”

Wilson’s move to Hartford marks the end of a six-year tenure at St. Michael’s in which he was credited as a steady hand on the bench and a key force in shaping the Saints’ Final Four roster. Hartford officials praised his reputation for player development and toughness in announcing the hire.

But in Elmridge, most talk centered on Jalen, who will be a junior in the fall. His decision to stay brought relief but not surprise.

“Jalen’s a Saint through and through,” said Pat Connolly, who runs a barber shop on Main Street. “He grew up in these gyms. We figured he’d stick, but it’s good to hear him say it out loud.”

St. Michael’s head coach Toby Whittaker struck a balance of pride and poignancy.

“I couldn’t be happier for Carl — he’s earned the right to run his own program,” Whittaker said. “And I couldn’t be prouder of Jalen. He’s not just a coach’s kid; he’s a leader. He’ll be a huge part of what we’re building here.”

Carl Wilson called the transition “bittersweet but right.”

“This is Jalen’s journey,” he said. “I’ll always be his dad, no matter what colors I’m wearing. I’ll be cheering for him every step of the way — except maybe once a year if we’re across from each other.”

After a March run that nearly ended in a national championship, the Saints will enter next season ranked in the national polls and eager to prove last year was no fluke.

And in Elmridge, there’s a sense of double pride — one Wilson leading his own program in Connecticut, another steering the Saints from the point.

November 13, 2012


Toby Whittaker was cautiously optimistic about the Saints' chances in 2011/12. "You don't replace a player like Brenner Turnbull," he said. "It's going to take a village. But, at the same time, we have a core of veteran players who have seen almost everything college basketball can send their way. They've won a lot of games and made deep tournament runs."

Seniors Matt Caruso and Joe Greeley certainly fit that description. Both were returning from breakout seasons; Joe, in particular, had been a wonderful surprise the season before. Both Matt and Joe could score, rebound, defend, and pass; Matt was an especially dangerous three-level scorer, while Joe was a stout post defender and a very good shot blocker for a 6'7" player.

A third senior, big man Sandy Fancher, was also slated to start. Sandy had paid his dues, backing up Brenner Turnbull and gradually earning more playing time. Now he was a versatile big, willing to do the tough jobs under both baskets.

The strongest presence in the locker room was, however, a junior: point guard Jalen Wilson. Jalen's decision to stay, rather than following his father to Hartford, spoke volumes about his commitment to his team and his teammates. He might never be a great shooter--except from the free throw line--but he was a creative passer and a secure ball-handler, at his best when the stakes were highest.

His classmate, Malik Jefferson, was set to return to the starting five after a late-season stint as the team's sixth man. Malik, like Fancher and Greeley, a gritty player who was willing to mix it up; this fall, he revealed a softer touch around the basket and a more effective mid-range shot.

Sophomores Desmond Lee and Trevor McMillan would be the first players off Toby's bench. Lee could handle any of the three perimeter spots, providing a burst of energy that could change the shape of a game. McMillan was, in assistant Charles Campbell's words, "the closest thing to a young Brenner Turnbull you could get."

Junior Evan Carlucci, sophomore Caleb Lear, and freshman Connor Del Vecchio would make up the rest of the team's rotation. Evan was a defense-stretching shooter; Lear was a distributor; Del Vecchio was a promising stretch big.

While Toby was careful not to big his team up too much publicly, he delivered a different message to them behind closed doors.

"You have a chance to do something special this year," he reminded them. "History is full of the story of teams that had one shining season, one deep tournament run. I think you can show people you aren't one of those teams. If you lock in and play the way I think you can play, you can play a lot of very meaningful basketball in March.

"Maybe in April again, too."

Let's meet the newest member of the St. Michael's basketball family.

Daniel Bartley – Coaching Assistant, St. Michael’s Saints

Daniel Bartley joined the St. Michael’s staff in 2012 as a young coaching assistant, quickly earning a reputation as the program’s “X-and-O guy.” Just 26 years old at the time of his hire, Bartley represented the new wave of analytical, detail-driven minds coming into the college game.

A native of Decorah, Iowa, Bartley grew up in a small-town basketball culture where the high school gym doubled as the community center. He played point guard for Decorah High before attending Creighton University, graduating in 2008 with a degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education. Though he never played at the collegiate level, Bartley became deeply involved with the Bluejays’ basketball program, working as a student manager and later a graduate assistant. He developed a reputation for meticulous breakdowns of game film, innovative practice drills, and a knack for simplifying complex schemes so that players could execute them cleanly.

Before arriving at St. Michael’s, Bartley spent four years teaching high school math in Omaha while also serving as an assistant coach at a strong Nebraska Class A high school program. His ability to design offensive sets, scout opponents, and explain strategy in plain language quickly drew the attention of college staffs in the region.

Head coach Toby Whittaker brought Bartley on board in 2012, looking for someone who could add fresh tactical ideas and balance the staff’s strengths. Bartley quickly earned the trust of the players, who appreciate his approachable teaching style and his habit of staying late to help them study plays or go over film one-on-one.

Though young, Bartley has already made his mark as an innovator and communicator — a coach whose diagrams on the whiteboard often translate into baskets on the floor.

(In game terms, Bartley is a superb coaching assistant, with ratings of 54 for Offense and 74 for Defense.)


Daniel Bartley felt the weight of it, even if he doesn’t say so outright. He knew Carl Wilson wasn’t just an assistant — he was a pillar of the program, a local figure, Jalen’s father, and a bridge between the team and the community.

For Daniel, stepping into that space felt like replacing not just a coach but part of the school’s identity. He told himself he didn't need to replace Carl — nobody could — but he wanted to prove he belongs and earn respect in his own way.

Privately, he was a little nervous. At 26, first college job, surrounded by veterans like Toby and Charles Campbell, he wondered if players will see him as “the kid with the playbook.” But he was also energized: he saw himself as the X-and-O problem solver, the one who cwould bring fresh wrinkles and ideas, and he was eager to show Toby hired him for a reason.

And with Jalen still on the team, Daniel was careful. He didn't want to seem like he’s intruding on that father-son bond. Instead, he tried to build trust with Jalen and the other players by listening first, talking second.

January 4, 2012

My Favorite Basketball Team
By Nora Whittaker
Grade 5
St. Aloysius School

This year the St. Michael’s Saints are having a season that feels very special. They have only lost one game so far, and I think they are proving that they can compete with any team in the country. Because my dad is the coach, I have been able to follow their journey closely, and I want to share what it has been like.

The season began in November at the Paradise Shootout, a tournament far from home in the Bahamas. I wasn't able to go, but I watched the games on TV, like many other Saints fans. The Saints won all three of their games there, beating Minnesota, Illinois State, and Louisville. The Louisville game was especially exciting because it came down to the last few minutes, and the Saints won 84–81. Starting the season 3–0 gave them a lot of confidence.

After that, the team kept winning. They beat Mount St. Mary’s by more than 30 points, and then they went to Louisville again and beat them on their own court. That showed how strong the Saints really are. Other wins came against Hartford, Richmond, Trinity, and Drake. Against Drake, the Saints held their opponent to only 46 points, which shows how tough their defense can be.

The first loss of the season happened at North Carolina, who was ranked number 3 in the nation. Even though the Saints lost 77–65, they played hard the whole game, and I think it showed they belonged on the same floor as a famous program like UNC.

Since then, they have gone right back to winning. Victories over Lehigh, Middlebury, Fordham, Vanderbilt, and Stanford have pushed their record to 15–1. It’s the best start I can remember them having. They are now ranked #11, moving up from #14 last week.

Two of my favorite players are Jalen Wilson, because he makes decisions and moves quickly, and Matt Caruso, because he shoots three-pointers with so much confidence. But I really cheer for the whole team, not just one or two people.

I believe the Saints will go far in the NCAA Tournament this year. They play with teamwork, energy, and heart. I am proud of them, and I am proud of my dad for being their coach.


Teacher’s Comment: Excellent work, Nora! You organized your essay so clearly, and your pride in your team really shines through. Wonderful job connecting details from the season to your feelings. A+

Every basketball fan in the Philadelphia area knew Kyle Whitworth. The 6'8" wing from St. Michael’s College School was the kind of talent that made local fans stop in their tracks. Able to do almost anything on a basketball court and do it well, Kyle was the classic “can’t-miss” recruit. He was a high four-star recruit, the kind of player who would one day feature in the ACC, the Big East, maybe even a blueblood program across the country. Despite the fact he attended the high school founded to prepare students for St. Michael’s College, everyone assumed he would set his sights much higher than the local program.

That assumption lasted until January 28, 2012.

From the start, Kyle’s recruitment was unconventional. Toby Whittaker admitted recruiting Kyle was a reach. “If he hadn’t been right here,” Toby admitted, “we probably wouldn’t have taken a shot.”

Kyle politely declined St. Michael’s offers in June 2011. “I appreciate it, but I’m looking at bigger programs,” he told Charles Campbell, the Saints’ lead recruiter. It was a fair answer. For a player of Kyle’s size, skill, and upside, top-tier conferences were the obvious destination.

But Campbell saw something others did not: Kyle’s connection to the town, to the program, to the people who had watched him grow up. He stayed patient, calling, texting, sending personalized video breakdowns, and emphasizing how Kyle’s game would flourish in the Saints’ system. “It wasn’t about pressure,” Kyle later said. “It was about understanding me, my style, and my potential.”

Visits to larger schools offered spectacle, but St. Michael’s offered substance. Kyle watched practices, met with Coach Whittaker and his staff, and got to know the players who had played on national stages, including the Final Four run the previous season. “I saw how much these guys cared,” he said. “It wasn’t just about winning games — it was about building something that lasts."

By December, Kyle’s perspective had shifted. The big programs offered size, notoriety, and tradition, but St. Michael’s offered influence and growth. When he visited campus officially, walked the halls, and stayed overnight with the team, he felt it: the program’s culture, the fans, the history in a way even a local boy couldn't know them— and he felt the sense that he could be a cornerstone of the Saints’ future.

“We didn’t promise Kyle a starting job,” Toby recalled. “We’ve got Malik Jefferson, Desmond Lee, Evan Carlucci. Players who have thrived in our program, guys who have played in the Final Four. We promised him the opportunity to challenge them, to develop, to grow.

“I know Malik and Desmond will be ready to play college basketball next season. I hope Kyle will be.”

When Kyle finally committed, it was more than a recruiting victory; it was a statement. Kyle wasn’t the first local star to pick St. Michael’s. Jalen Wilson, from Elmridge High, was now a cornerstone of the Saints program. But, in all fairness to Jalen, he was a three-star prospect and the son of a Saints assistant coach. Kyle’s signing felt like something else. He had been courted by the nation’s elite conferences, and he had chosen home.
Elmridge celebrated, and Charles Campbell finally allowed himself a quiet smile. “Kyle understood that greatness isn’t only measured by the name on the jersey,” he said. “It’s about the stage, the opportunity, and the people you do it with."

Jalen Wilson understood. “I talked to Kyle about what it’s like to play in your home town. Sure, it creates an extra level of pressure, but at the same time, there's nothing like playing in front of people who have been here for you, every step of the way. It's a big reason why I'm not at Hartford with my dad."

At his signing ceremony, Kyle was his authentic self: quiet, reserved, humble. He wore his SMCS blazer and tie. His parents, Mark and Elaine, stood beside him; Mark was an accountant, and Elaine a nurse at a senior living center. Kyle's brother Liam, 14 years old and only three inches shorter than Kyle, had already caught the eye of the Saints staff.

Kyle's words that day were simple. "Everyone thought I’d pick a big conference school, but this felt right. The coaches, the team, the city — it all clicked. I’m ready to compete."

The navy-and-gold now had another local hero on the way — a versatile four-star wing who could have gone almost anywhere, but chose St. Michael’s, proving that sometimes the brightest lights shine closest to home.

A peek behind the curtain...

I created two high schools for my fictional town of Elmridge when I set up my basketball world. Elmridge High School is the local public school. St. Michael's College School is a preparatory school, similar to Georgetown Prep, La Salle College School, or Iona Prep.

As you might have guessed, Jalen Wilson was placed into the game deliberately. When I let AI create families for Toby's assistant coaches, it decided Carl Wilson needed a son who was good at basketball. I admittedly made Jalen a three-star talent so I would have had a fair shot at recruiting him to play for St. Michael's, and that's how it turned out. Had another team signed Jalen instead, I would have another good story, as Carl and Jalen faced each other as opponents. In fact, the game has set that storyline up anyway, since Carl's success has opened the door for him at Hartford.

This year, the game added Kyle Whitworth to its pool of recruits and gave him SMCS as his high school team. Kyle spawned as a really, really good player: ranked #68 nationally, a top 10 player at his position, and the #3 player in the East. My first thought was "He's probably literally out of our league, but I'll see what happens."

Kyle initially had Average interest in playing for St. Michael's, probably because he could not be more local. I recruited him hard, and his interest moved to High in October. I nearly gave up on him then, because we were trailing Villanova and St. John's in the race to sign him. Both the Wildcats and the Red Storm had offered him scholarships.

Then, Kyle cut his list to three programs, and we were still there. Now I could bring him to campus, and in December St. John's pulled their offer. By now I was in it to win it. I'd signed two big men I liked a lot (you'll meet them soon), so I felt like rolling the dice with Kyle.

The dice came up big for us. :) That trip to the Final Four lets us shop in a different aisle now.

Had we not signed Kyle, he would have been a footnote, a minor mention in our recruiting story, the local star who's too good for the Centennial Conference. Thanks to a kind nod from the game, Kyle is now an important character.

Sometimes the game creates a really fun storyline, doesn't it? :)

January 2012

Kyle Whitworth claimed most of the headlines from St. Michael's 2012 recruiting class, but he was far from the only promising player Toby Whittaker and his staff signed. Two big men with intriguing skill sets would be joining Whitworth on campus in the fall.

Andre Cartwright was described by recruiter Charles Campbell as a "tough-guy big." He meant that as a compliment, highlighting Andre's rugged post defense and lust for rebounds. Andre's offensive game was limited, but he showed some aptitude for low-post scoring. Toby envisioned the 6'9" product of Lebanon County, PA as a long-term project, a player who would learn from Trevor McMillan before growing into a player who could dominate the paint.

New Jersey native Cameron Corley wasn't rated quite as highly as Andre was, probably because the 6'9" forward lacked a signature skill. However, he could do most things a coach could ask him to do fairly well. Cam was big and strong enough to hold his own against big men, athletic enough to step out onto the wing. He was a good shooter for a power forward, almost worthy of the "stretch big" label. Cam's versatility could allow him to carve out a role quicker than Andre might, although he'd be competing with Whitworth for minutes on the wing.

On paper, at least, this would almost certainly be regarded as the best recruiting class of Toby's career. Shaping them into winning players would be the next--and more challenging--task.

Back in November, St. Michael's welcomed back former assistant coach Carl Wilson, who brought his Hartford team to The Pavilion. The crowd gave Coach Wilson a standing ovation that brought tears to his eyes, and then the Saints rolled over his team by over thirty points.

For obvious reasons, Carl kept a close eye on the Saints. What did he have to say about their unbeaten romp through the Centennial Conference?

When you look at what St. Michael’s has done in the league this year, it’s nothing short of dominant," Wilson said. "It’s not just the wins, it’s the way they’ve taken care of business night after night. The Centennial can trip you up if you’re not locked in—those gyms are smaller, teams play with nothing to lose—but Toby’s group has been steady the whole way."

He pointed first to the steady hand of his son. "Jalen’s really grown into that role as the floor leader. He’s not just pushing the pace or making the extra pass, he’s dictating the whole tempo of games. He's playing like the veteran he is."

On the wings, Wilson praised Matt Caruso’s magical season. "Matt’s been electric. Twenty-plus a night, and he’s doing it with efficiency. He doesn’t force things, but when they need a bucket, he finds it. He’s the guy that bends defenses and makes everybody else’s job easier. And at the same time, he's playing D, rebounding, and finding open teammates. Matt has matured into a complete player."

And up front, Wilson noted the inside-out balance. "Joe Greeley and Malik Jefferson are a load. Joe’s so tough around the rim, and Malik has become that matchup nightmare. One night he’s putting up 18, the next he’s pulling down double-digit rebounds. You can’t key on one without giving up something to the other."

Wilson summed it up with quiet respect for the program he helped build. "It’s a complete team. Defense, rebounding, guard play, scoring from different spots. They’re not sneaking up on anybody anymore, and yet they keep finding ways to win. That’s what special seasons look like."

Toby Whittaker smiled when reporters brought up Carl’s words. “That means a lot, coming from Carl. He knows what it takes, because he helped build this thing brick by brick right alongside me. And he’s still family to all of us here.”

He paused, then added: “Carl’s right about the guys, too. Jalen’s really embraced being the quarterback of this team, and you can’t say enough about what Matt, Joe, and Malik are giving us every night. But I’ll tell you this—Carl also knows as well as I do that it’s never just the stars. It’s the whole locker room, from the starters to the scout guys who make practice hard every day. That’s the culture he helped create, and it’s still the heartbeat of this program.”

Toby finished with a nod. “We root for him in Hartford every chance we get, and I know he’s rooting for us. That bond doesn’t go away.”

As the Centennial Conference tournament began, St. Michael's occupied a seat at the head table of college basketball.

North Carolina State, a program against which Toby Whittaker's team had been matched the season before, was perhaps even better this time around. Two traditional Philly powerhouses, Temple and Villanova, joined the Saints in the Top Ten. The North Carolina team that beat the Saints in December was ranked as well.

The Saints entered the Centennial Conference tournament with the confidence a team with thirty wins and one loss could be expected to have. Their first round opponent was eight-seed Muhlenberg. The Mules had played well in November and December before slipping badly during conference play, going 4-10 in the league. Which team would show up? The one that had 13 wins by New Years Day, or the one the Saints had beaten twice by double digits?


March 2, 2012
Centennial Conference Tournament
The Palestra, Philadelphia, PA

Ray Kessler, the radio voice of St. Michael's basketball, described what happened in the game's final seconds.

"Johnson rises from the elbow—jumper for the win… it’s off the rim, no good! Price snares the rebound—one second—he goes back up against Greeley—AND IT FALLS! IT FALLS AT THE BUZZER! Tyrell Price, the junior center for Muhlenberg, tips it home, and the Mules have stunned St. Michael’s at the Palestra!"

(crowd roar in background)

"Oh my goodness… 87–86, the final score, and the Saints’ tournament run comes to an end in the cruelest possible fashion. James Johnson had the look, it rattled out, and Price was there—Johnny-on-the-spot—to beat the clock by the slimmest of margins."

"What a finish, what a heartbreaker. The Saints have given us a season for the ages, but tonight, it’s Muhlenberg moving on in the Centennial Conference tournament. St. Michael’s, 30–2, will wait now for the NCAA committee. We'll surely get good news on Selection Sunday, but for the moment, this arena belongs to Tyrell Price and the Mules."

The Saints' shocking loss in the first round of the Centennial tournament might have cost them the opportunity to play their NCAA tournament games in a region close to home. Still, their 30-2 record and superb metrics earned them the top seed in the West Region.


The Saints' first stop was Columbus, Ohio, where they faced VCU.

Ray Kessler, voice of the Saints:

"Thirty seconds to play here in Columbus, and the Saints are closing it out. Wilson works it at the top, directing traffic—composed as always. Shot clock down to ten, Wilson dribbles right, hands off to Caruso. Matt rises from fifteen… GOOD! Matt Caruso, the senior captain, delivers once again—he’s got twenty-one, and that’s the knockout punch."

(crowd of Saints fans erupts, strong but not quite shocked—more like relief and pride)

"VCU hurries it back, quick three on the way—off the mark! Malik Jefferson snatches the rebound, and he’s fouled with eleven seconds to go. That’s been the story all night—Jefferson and Greeley controlling the glass, Wilson steady as ever, and Caruso rising to the moment, just like he’s done his whole career..."

"And listen to the crowd now—there’s confidence in this building. The Saints, the number one seed, the team that played for the national championship a year ago, are headed back to the round of 32. The horn sounds, and it’s final—St. Michael’s 71, VCU 62!"

(brief pause as crowd noise fills in)

"This program doesn’t just win games now, they expect to win. Toby Whittaker’s team is moving on, and once again the Saints look every bit like a contender on the national stage."


Next, the Saints faced a very good Pepperdine team.

Ray Kessler:

"One minute to go here in Columbus, and the Saints have left no doubt tonight. Pepperdine, a 22-win ballclub that came in with confidence, has been run off the floor by the depth and balance of St. Michael’s. It’s 86-73, Saints, and Desmond Lee—what a lift he’s given off the bench—he’s got twelve, and none bigger than that corner three midway through the second half when Pepperdine made their last push."

"Here come the Waves again, forced shot—no good, rebounded by Fancher, out to Wilson. Jalen slows it down, the junior point guard showing poise, just dribbling clock. Caruso flashes a smile to the bench, and Toby Whittaker signals to clear it out..."

"Shot clock under ten, Greeley with it on the block—turnaround jumper is pure. Joe Greeley, steady all night, puts the exclamation point on this one. Ninety to seventy-five."

(crowd swells with cheers as Pepperdine subs dribble it out)

"And there’s the horn! Final score—St. Michael’s 90, Pepperdine 75. The Saints roll into the Sweet Sixteen for the second straight year, behind 23 from Matt Caruso, 18 and 10 from Joe Greeley, Wilson’s floor leadership, and yes, the spark of sixth man Desmond Lee. He’s the kind of player who makes a good team great, and tonight he reminded everybody why depth matters in March."

"From Columbus, it’s St. Michael’s heading back to the regional semifinals. The Saints faithful are on their feet, and you can just feel it—they believe this team might be ready for another run to the very top."


On to Phoenix went Toby and his team. There, they met another tough opponent, #18 ranked Arkansas.

Ray Kessler on the call:

"Seventy-five seconds left here in Phoenix, and the Saints fans are on their feet. St. Michael’s 72, Arkansas 55, and what a clinic this has been in the second half. The substitutes are on the floor now—sophomore Caleb Lear, the backup point guard out of Oyster Bay, New York, bringing it up against token pressure."

"He swings it left for Connor Del Vecchio, the freshman from nearby Wynwood—local kid living the dream on the Sweet Sixteen stage. Now out high to Carlucci, the freshman shooting guard—quick trigger, but he wisely pulls it back. Ten to shoot."

"Desmond Lee, who has been so valuable off the bench all tournament, takes it at the top, crossover dribble, step-back three—bang! D-Lee puts the exclamation point on it! It’s 75–57, Saints..."

"Arkansas with a hurried shot, Roberson can’t finish, rebound McMillan, and the Saints can dribble it out. What a performance. From the senior captain Caruso to the bruising work of Joe Greeley and Sandy Fancher, to the steady leadership of Jalen Wilson, and yes—the depth pieces closing it out in style here tonight."

(horn sounds, crowd roars)

"Final score at the Desert Dome: St. Michael’s 75, Arkansas 57. The Saints are headed back to the Elite Eight! A dominant defensive effort, a balanced offense, and a complete statement by the number-one seed. Folks, the dream is alive and well for Toby Whittaker’s Saints."

Eight teams still had a chance at the national championship, and St. Michael's was among them. The Saints faced Rice in the West Regional final.

The Owls were good. Very good. They finished third in Conference USA, trailing only the league's heavyweights: Houston and Memphis. They were ranked in the Top 20, and even higher in the RPI.


Here's Ray Kessler, calling the final thirty seconds:

"We’re down to the final half-minute here in Phoenix, and the Saints are about to stamp their ticket to the Final Four once again. St. Michael’s 73, Rice 52, and listen to this crowd roar—these fans have traveled across the country, and they are getting their money’s worth tonight."

"Matt Caruso, once again, has been simply sensational—25 points, steady all night long, the heartbeat of this team. Joe Greeley, the senior power forward, relentless inside, 17 points and 11 rebounds—he just wore down the Owls’ front line. And how about Desmond Lee off the bench? A huge spark, knocking down big shots and playing fearless defense when the Saints needed it most."

"Now the reserves are out there, dribbling this one out. Charles Laird with the catch at midcourt, hands to Caleb Lear, and that will do it. The horn sounds, and the celebration is on!"

(crowd erupts, St. Michael's pep band plays fight song)

"Final score from the Desert Dome in Phoenix: St. Michael’s 75, Rice 52. The Saints, led by Toby Whittaker, are heading back to the Final Four! Caruso, Greeley, and Lee delivered the goods, and the Saints delivered a masterpiece tonight. Folks, pack your bags—St. Michael’s is Final Four bound!"


The 2012 Final Four was held in New Orleans. The Saints players touched base with their professors concerning the work they would miss--Matt Caruso had to edit a paper for his Organic Chemistry seminar, and Jalen Wilson had some work for his Business Statistics course--and they got back in the gym to prepare for their next opponent.

Once again, that opponent would be the Wolfpack of North Carolina State.

NC State had a new coach. Earl Ulibarri had taken Memphis to three consecutive Elite Eights before he heard the siren's call of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Coach Ulibarri had the Pack playing like predators. Not for nothing were they the nation's top ranked team.

But the Saints were no longer considered a "Gee whiz, we're happy to be here!" kind of team. They were ranked third in the nation. They entered the game with a 34-2 record; the Wolfpack were 35-2. With all due respect to the teams playing in the other national semifinal, St. Bonaventure and Illinois-Chicago, many in the media considered the Wolfpack-Saints matchup, a battle of #1 seeds, the "true national championship game."

This game pitted a school with fewer than 2500 undergraduate students against an opponent that had ten times as many. But, as Ari Goldberg pointed out, "only five of them can be on the court at a time."

Claire Whittaker did not surprise her husband with a visit this time. She took Nora, Grace, and Eli out of school and came to New Orleans the day before the game. They appeared at the Superdome wearing matching navy t-shirts with gold lettering that read "And though we be but little, we are fierce"--an adaptation of Shakespeare's famous line from A Midsummer Night's Dream.


St. Michael’s 81, N.C. State 76

Saints Return to the National Championship Game

New Orleans — April 2, 2012

The Saints are going back.

One year after their storybook run ended with heartbreak in the national championship game, St. Michael’s of Pennsylvania is headed back to Monday night’s final. The Saints survived a furious charge from N.C. State and held on for an 81–76 victory in the Superdome, sending their navy-and-gold faithful into delirium.

This wasn’t the first time the two programs had met on a big stage. A season ago, the Saints stunned the Wolfpack in the Preseason NIT and then beat them again in March. The Pack came loaded for revenge.

“They’re a tough team, and they weren’t going to give us anything,” said senior guard Matt Caruso, who dazzled with 18 points and six assists. “We’ve been here before, and we know how hard it is. That experience helped us tonight.”

Caruso, the heartbeat of the Saints, got plenty of help. Senior forward Joe Greeley muscled his way to a team-high 21 points and 11 rebounds, while junior point guard Jalen Wilson added 15 points and five assists, steadying the offense each time N.C. State surged. Center Sandy Fancher contributed two big blocked shots, battling effectively with All-ACC big man Michael Holloway.

The Saints (34–2) led by as many as 13 in the first half, thanks to Greeley’s rebounding and Wilson’s perimeter shooting. But N.C. State clawed back behind dynamic guard Frank Spinelli, who poured in 24 points and nearly swung momentum to the Pack.

The decisive stretch came late in the second half. With the Saints up just 72–70, Caruso drove the lane through two defenders, then kicked out to Wilson for a dagger three in the corner. A possession later, sixth man Desmond Lee stepped in to draw a charge, igniting the Saints’ bench and their section of the dome.

“Plays like that win games,” head coach Toby Whittaker said. “This group knows how to respond to pressure. That’s what makes them special.”

Spinelli kept N.C. State alive with a deep three that cut the margin to 79–76 with 14 seconds left, but Caruso calmly buried two free throws to seal the victory.

Now, St. Michael’s returns to the national championship game for the second straight season—a remarkable feat for a college of just 2,500 students.

“This is why you come back after last year,” Caruso said. “We’ve got one more shot.”

One More Sleep: Matt Caruso

The evening before the national championship, Matt Caruso kept things simple.

He wasn’t one for the Bourbon Street chaos outside, nor the big team dinners where everyone laughed to chase away nerves. After the Saints’ final walkthrough at the Superdome and a quiet meal with his teammates, Matt slipped back to his room at the team hotel.

On his desk was a stack of note cards — outlines from the biology seminar he was still responsible for when he got back to campus. His professors had teased him about balancing finals with the Final Four, but he didn’t mind. “It keeps me grounded,” he’d said. So he reviewed a few concepts, half to study, half to distract his mind.

Then he set the cards aside and took out the small spiral notebook he always carried. In neat handwriting, he wrote down three things:

Defend without fouling.

Trust Jalen to run the floor.

Enjoy every possession.

It wasn’t superstition so much as ritual — the act of distilling the game into something manageable.

Afterward, he connected with his family. His father, Dr. Anthony Caruso, was in town with Matt’s mother and younger sister, and Matt could hear the buzz of New Orleans in the background as they promised to be in their seats early. His mother told him she was proud of him no matter what happened. His dad said simply, “You’ve done it the right way, Matt. That’s what matters.”

Later, a few teammates — Greeley, Fancher, Wilson — drifted into his room. They stretched out on the floor, channel-surfed, and half-watched a movie while swapping stories about the last two years. It was the kind of low-key gathering that only veterans knew how to savor.

By midnight, the room was empty again. Matt stood at the window, looking out at the city lights and thinking about everything — the practices, the losses, the bonds that turned a small-school team into a national power. He whispered a short prayer, not for victory, but for peace and clarity when the ball went up.

Then he turned out the light, placed his notebook on the nightstand, and finally let himself rest. Tomorrow would be the last time he wore the St. Michael’s jersey.

One More Sleep: Jalen Wilson

While Matt Caruso wound down with his notebook and biology flashcards, Jalen Wilson found himself restless.

He was only a junior, but he felt the weight of what was about to happen — not just a championship game, but the end of the Caruso era, the end of Greeley’s voice in the huddles, the end of Fancher's humor, and the end of sharing the floor with the seniors who had taught him how to survive and thrive in Division I.

Jalen wandered the hotel corridors for a while, earbuds in, listening to an old hip-hop playlist his dad had introduced him to. Then he ducked into the ballroom where the team had eaten dinner. It was dark now, chairs stacked, but he sat down anyway. The emptiness of the room gave him space to think.

He thought about his father, Carl Wilson, starting a new life at Hartford. For months, everyone had assumed he’d transfer, too. But he had stayed. Tonight, staring up at the chandeliers, Jalen felt a quiet pride about that decision. “This is where I belong,” he thought.

Back upstairs, he opened his laptop. Instead of scouting film, he pulled up an economics article for his seminar. He read a few pages, not absorbing much, then set it aside. His mind kept circling back to one thing: leadership. Tomorrow, Matt and Joe and Sandy would be gone. Next season, the locker room would look to him even more than they already did.

At about 11:30, he shot a quick text to Matt:

Appreciate you, bro. Gonna make sure we finish this the right way.

Matt responded a few minutes later with a simple thumbs-up.

Jalen lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. “Play loose. Be steady. My turn is coming.” That thought carried him into sleep, heart steady, mind already leaning toward both tomorrow’s challenge and what lay beyond it.

One More Sleep: Charles Laird

Charles Laird, the freshman walk-on center from Omaha, kept things simple that night. He stayed in his hotel room after dinner, headphones on, listening to a playlist he’d built over the season—mostly mellow jazz and a few old rock songs. He’d brought a notebook and was scribbling through some thoughts, mostly reminders about what his role for tomorrow would be if he got in the game: box out hard, set solid screens, be ready for whatever the game demanded.

Charles had played 23 minutes in eight appearances this season. It was a far cry from his high school days, when he was a two-time All-Conference center who averaged a double-double his senior year. He would have almost certainly been a Division III star--he was 6'10", strong, and athletic--but he chose to enroll at St. Michael's and concentrate on helping Sandy Fancher, Joe Greeley, and Trevor McMillan become better players.

Unlike the starters, he didn’t feel the same spotlight, but he felt the weight of being ready in case Toby called his number. A few small rituals grounded him—making sure his sneakers were spotless, double-checking the laces, stretching carefully, and sipping a cup of chamomile tea he’d discovered at the hotel.

Before lights out, he sent a quick text to his family in Omaha: “Big game tomorrow. Wish you were here. Love you all.”

Then he leaned back in the chair, letting the quiet settle over him. He was nervous, sure, but he was also quietly excited—he was part of something bigger, and he wanted to be ready to help in any way he could. The hum of the city outside the window mixed with his steady breathing, and he drifted off to sleep thinking about screens, rebounds, and the sound of a cheering crowd.

One More Sleep: Grace and Eli Whittaker

In the quiet hotel room, Grace and Eli lay under their blankets, eyes wide open in the dark. Grace, at eight, felt a little flutter of worry for her dad. “Do you think Daddy will win tomorrow?” she whispered to Eli.

Eli, six, shrugged, hugging his stuffed dog. “He’s Daddy. He’s gonna try really hard,” he said, his voice small but confident.

"Let's sneak out and go see Daddy," Grace whispered.

Eli shook his head. “Mommy would be mad. But… maybe it’s better we stay here. We can dream about the game.”

They lay back down, imagining the court and the crowd and their dad standing tall, calling plays, his calm voice cutting through the noise. The image made them smile. Even in the dark, they felt like they were right there with him, cheering him on.

Grace yawned. “Tomorrow’s going to be big.”

Eli nodded, eyes closing. “The biggest. But Daddy’s ready.”

Together, they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in the quiet excitement of the night before the game, knowing their dad’s team was just as ready as he was.

One More Sleep: Nora Whittaker

Nora Whittaker lay on her side in the too-big hotel bed, the hum of the air conditioner filling the dark. Grace had already turned over and begun to breathe in her soft, steady way, and Eli was out cold, hugging the stuffed Saint Bernard he’d insisted on bringing along. But Nora’s eyes stayed open, her mind running in circles.

She thought about tomorrow. She thought about her dad, and how calm he always looked on TV, his arms crossed, his voice steady in huddles. But Nora knew that underneath, he carried the whole team like it was homework due the next morning. She remembered how he sometimes came home late and sat at the kitchen table with papers spread everywhere, quiet but serious.

Everyone at school had been talking about St. Michael’s since March, even the teachers. Nora had written that essay about the season, and she still couldn’t believe Mrs. Gallagher had read it aloud to the class. Now here she was, in New Orleans, and tomorrow her dad’s team was going to play for everything.

She hugged her pillow and tried to imagine what it would be like if they won — the confetti, the noise, the TV cameras zooming in on her dad. People in Elmridge would be talking about it for years. And if they lost? Well, she remembered last year, too. She remembered how quiet dinner had been after they came back from Houston.

But even if nobody else knew it, Nora felt like she understood. Her dad wanted to win for the players, for the school, for all of Elmridge — but also for them, his family. She felt that, even if he never said it.

As her eyelids grew heavy, she made a little promise to herself: no matter what happened tomorrow, she would clap and cheer the loudest she could. Because maybe her dad needed to see her face in the stands, to remember that he wasn’t carrying it all alone.

With that thought, Nora finally let herself drift to sleep, dreaming of nets being cut and her dad smiling, really smiling, in a way she hoped she’d never forget.

One More Sleep: Claire Dempsey Whittaker

Claire Whittaker had spent the whole day keeping the kids moving so Toby could focus on tomorrow's game. A walk down Canal Street in the morning, a stop for beignets that ended with Eli wearing half the powdered sugar, an afternoon of sightseeing that mostly dissolved into Grace dragging her notebook around, sketching street musicians. By the time evening fell, the kids were happily worn out, buzzing with the strange excitement of being in a big city for something they understood was a big deal.

As Toby ate dinner with his assistants and players, Claire sat by the window of the hotel room she shared with the kids, looking down at the glowing French Quarter. She was proud of Toby — more than proud, really. The boy she had met back in college had turned into a man who carried an entire program on his back, who was about to coach his second national championship game in as many years. And yet she knew, better than anyone, that under all that polish and calm was Toby, who still worried about whether he’d done enough.

She tucked Eli in first, listening to him chatter sleepily about the “big game” and whether the Saints’ mascot could beat a wolf in a fight. Grace was next, her braid half-finished because she’d fallen asleep mid-conversation about whether she’d see herself on TV tomorrow. Nora, though, stayed awake a little longer, wanting to talk about the story she was writing for English — something about heroes and what makes them different from regular people. Claire smiled at that, kissed her eldest on the forehead, and finally dimmed the lights.

When Toby stopped by the room later, she could see the weight in his shoulders, the way he tried to carry it alone. She let him. And when he finally admitted, in a low voice, that he hated not knowing if tomorrow would bring triumph or heartbreak, she squeezed his hand.

“They already have what you've helped them build...a real team,” she told him softly. “You’ve given them that. Whatever the score says tomorrow, you’ve already won.”

After he left, she lingered a little by the window, listening to the hum of the city. For Claire, the game tomorrow wasn’t about trophies or polls. It was about the man she loved, the father of her kids, getting another moment on the stage he had dreamed of for so long. She only hoped he’d allow himself to feel it — really feel it — no matter what the scoreboard said when the final buzzer sounded.

One More Sleep: Toby Whittaker

That night in New Orleans, Toby Whittaker let himself step out of the coach’s grind for just a little while.

After the team dinner and his final meeting with the staff, he didn’t bury himself in scouting film like he usually did. He had already gone over every angle of the opponent twice that day, and his assistants had the details locked down. Instead, he texted Claire and walked down the hall to the room where she and the kids were staying.

Up in their room, he found Nora sprawled on the bed with a book, Grace braiding Eli’s hair into a goofy topknot, and Claire perched by the window with a glass of iced tea. They looked so normal, so themselves, that Toby felt the tension in his shoulders slip away the second he walked in.

For the next hour, they didn’t talk basketball at all. Eli told a story about his teacher falling asleep during a video; Grace described an art project; Nora wanted her dad’s thoughts on a story she was writing for English. Claire asked about his suit for tomorrow, teased him that the tie she picked last year had become his “lucky” one.

Eventually, the kids drifted off — Eli on the pull-out, Nora and Grace whispering in the other bed. Toby and Claire sat quietly together, watching the lights of New Orleans flicker through the window. He admitted he felt both excitement and dread, knowing this was Matt’s and Joe’s and Sandy's last ride, knowing how thin the line was between joy and heartbreak.

Claire took his hand. “No matter what happens, they already wrote the story of a lifetime,” she said.

He nodded, letting that sink in. A coach can’t say those words to his team — not yet — but from Claire, they felt like permission to breathe.

By midnight, he slipped back to his room. The hallways were quiet, players tucked in, staff prepping. Alone in his room, he opened his playbook one last time, not because he needed to, but because it was his ritual. Then he turned off the light, thinking not about X’s and O’s, but about the faces of the young men who would step into history with him tomorrow.

NCAA Championship Game
The Louisiana Superdome
April 2, 2012

One national commentator referred to this championship game as "a contest between two of the most lovable finalists we've ever seen."

Despite the Saints' trip to last year's final, their 35 wins, and their #3 ranking, they weren't considered a "blue blood," a traditional powerhouse like Georgetown or Tennessee or N.C. State.

Their opponent, Illinois-Chicago, was the kind of Cinderella with whom neutral fans always fell in love. The Flames were a #9 seed who upset St. Bonaventure on Saturday night. But they'd been challenging for a seat at the big table for a few years now. Their coach, David Martineau, in his first year in Chicago after a successful run at California, was one of the most astute X-and-O coaches in the business. They featured the nation's leading scorer, guard King Rendon. This Cinderella was far from star-struck, even if it was her first time dancing until the end of the ball.


Mike Donnelly and Ahmad Rice had the call on the national TV broadcast of the championship game. Donnelly, from Chicago, was a highly respected play-by-play man who cut his teeth in the Big Ten before going national in 1998. Rice was a former All-American guard at Texas Tech, and after a fine ten-year professional career--mostly as a valuable sixth man--he began a broadcasting career that led him from studio work to courtside.

Mike Donnelly (play-by-play):
“Welcome to New Orleans and the Superdome — the stage is set for the national championship. The Illinois-Chicago Flames, making their first trip to this game, against the Saints of St. Michael’s, who’ve fought their way back to the title tilt for the second straight year. The tap is up — Caron Rosario controls it, and here we go.”

Ahmad Rice (color):
“Rosario’s the senior anchor inside, Mike. He’s not flashy, but he’s steady — and he’ll test St. Michael’s right away with his size and footwork on the block.”

Donnelly:
“Theodore Marker brings it across for the Flames — a junior, crafty with the ball. He swings to Rendon on the wing… Bragg flashes high, looking for Rosario inside… good catch against Fancher… turn, hook — short, and Greeley clears the glass.”

Rice:
“Nice early work by Sandy Fancher there, holding his ground. That’s a key matchup — if Fancher can make Rosario work, the Saints are in good shape.”

Donnelly:
“Now St. Michael’s with their first touch. Wilson, the junior point guard, directing traffic — gets it to Caruso on the wing… Fancher flashes baseline, Jefferson up top… Greeley posting… Wilson still with it, probing… bounce to Greeley… backing down, jump-hook — and it drops! The Saints strike first.”

Rice:
“That’s what Joe Greeley gives you. He’s not just a defender; he can score with his back to the basket. That’s a confidence booster early for the big fella.”

Donnelly:
“Saints two, Flames nothing, just underway in the national championship game.”


Mike Donnelly (play-by-play):
“Thirteen minutes to play in the first half, Illinois-Chicago leading by one. Jalen Wilson brings it up the court, controlling the tempo, with Caruso perched on the wing… St. Michael’s looking to assert themselves early.”

Ahmad Rice (color):
“Watch Wilson here — he’s the conductor, directing that offense. And with Greeley down low, they’ve got a classic inside-out combo. If Rosario helps too early, Greeley can punish them inside.”

Donnelly:
“Wilson crosses halfcourt, Marker on him tight. He swings left to Caruso… drives hard, steps around Bragg… baseline pull-up — blocked by Rosario!”

Rice:
“That’s the senior center showing why he’s the anchor. Caruso thought he had a clean lane, but Rosario read it perfectly.”

Donnelly:
“Wilson is still on the move — pulls it back, calling for Greeley… sets the pick with Jefferson… Wilson uses it, threads the pass inside — Greeley rises — slam dunk! Saints take the lead, 14–13.”

Rice:
“Beautiful execution! Wilson held the ball just long enough to freeze the defense. Rosario bites on the guard — and Greeley finishes with authority. That’s basketball IQ and timing right there.”

Donnelly:
“And that basket gives St. Michael’s a spark. Let’s go courtside to Dana McKee for the bench reaction.”

Dana McKee (sideline):
“Thanks, Mike. You should’ve seen the energy on the Saints’ sideline — Toby Whittaker jumped to his feet, clapping and pointing straight at Wilson. The players around him erupted, fist pumps all around. You could literally see the confidence surge through this team after that play.”

Rice:
“That’s exactly the kind of lift you need in a tight championship game. When the coach and bench are reacting like that, it resonates on the court.”

Donnelly:
“Saints back on top, 14–13, and momentum seems to be swinging their way. Early signs that this combination of Caruso, Wilson, and Greeley can really dictate the flow.”

Dana McKee:
“And don’t forget, Mike, that Caruso’s been giving constant eye contact to his teammates, directing traffic, keeping them engaged. Even though he’s not the point guard, you can see the leadership radiating from him. This team feeds off that.”

Rice:
“That’s the beauty of versatile wings like Caruso — they can score, create, and lead. St. Michael’s is showing they’ve got all three in action right now. If there's a player in the country who does more to help his team win, I don't know who he is."


Mike Donnelly (play-by-play):
“Two thirty-seven remaining in the first half, St. Michael’s clinging to a one-point lead, 28–27. Flames with the ball — King Rendon, the nation’s leading scorer, brings it up against Caruso. Every possession counts in this one.”

Ahmad Rice (color):
“And that’s why Rendon is so dangerous, Mike. Even in a defensive game, he finds ways to create space and get shots. It’s not just volume — it’s efficiency and timing.”

Donnelly:
“Rendon uses a Bragg screen, steps back from 18 feet… shoots — good! Flames back on top, 29–28. Rendon now with 12 points in the first half, and every one has come in tough, contested situations.”

Rice:
“That’s the thing — in a game like this, points are at a premium. Each basket is like a small victory, and Rendon makes the most of every chance...”

Donnelly:
“Flames with eight to shoot. Rendon drives, Wilson sliding over — crossover, spins inside… floater over Greeley — nothing but net! Flames lead 31–28.”

Dana McKee (sideline):
“Mike, the Saints’ bench is intense right now — Toby Whittaker standing, gesturing, calling out matchups. They’re telling the guys to stay connected on Rendon and pick up every loose ball. You can feel the urgency on the floor and the sideline.”

Rice:
“Exactly, Dana. The Saints know they can’t give Rendon a single clean look. Greeley and Jefferson will have to play smart, and Caruso has to force him into tough angles.”

Donnelly:
“St. Michael’s now pushing the ball — Wilson surveys, swings to Caruso… baseline drive, steps through — gets the bucket! Back within one, 31–30. What a first-half chess match this has become.”

Rice:
“You see how every play is critical in a low-scoring game. One lapse, and it could be a four-point swing. That’s why Rendon’s 13 points already loom so large in this contest.”

McKee:
“And Mike, even with the tight score, the Saints are responding emotionally. Caruso is talking nonstop, keeping Wilson and the rest of the floor keyed in — this team thrives under pressure.”

The first half ended with St. Michael's holding a 33-32 lead. King Rendon led all scorers with 13 points; Matt Caruso had 10 for the Saints.

NCAA Championship Game
The Louisiana Superdome
April 2, 2012

The Second Half


Mike Donnelly (play-by-play):
“11:12 remaining in the second half, St. Michael’s leads 39–35. Saints with the ball — Wilson bringing it up, Caruso on the wing… Desmond Lee checking in for some fresh legs, and Trevor McMillan is patrolling the paint alongside Greeley. Let’s see what the Saints have.”

Ahmad Rice (color):
“Caruso’s been steady all game, Mike. He’s got the green light from deep when defenses overplay the paint, and this is the perfect situation for him.”

Donnelly:
“Wilson swings left to Caruso… Trev McMillan sets a solid screen on Rendon… Caruso dribbles, steps back behind the arc — launches a deep three… swish! From way downtown! Saints 42, Flames 35!”

Rice:
“That’s the kind of confidence you need in a championship game! McMillan’s screen gave Caruso just enough space — he held his follow-through and let it fly from the logo range. Pure stroke.”

Dana McKee (sideline):
“On the Saints’ bench, Toby Whittaker exploded out of his seat — clapping, pumping his fists. You could see the players feeding off the energy, especially Desmond Lee, who’s ready to push the pace on the next possession. Momentum has swung noticeably here.”

Donnelly:
“And what a dagger from Caruso! Seven-point lead now, 42–35, and the Saints are really starting to pull the Flames into their rhythm.”

Rice:
“That’s the difference between a good shooter and a great one. He recognized the spacing, used his teammates, and delivered in a clutch moment. Flames need a stop immediately or this lead could grow fast.”

***

Mike Donnelly (play-by-play):
“Six thirty remaining, St. Michael’s clinging to a 48–45 lead. Flames have the ball — Rendon bringing it up the floor, looking to trim the deficit. Saints with Fancher, Greeley, Jefferson, Lee, and Wilson on the floor.”

Ahmad Rice (color):
“This is a critical possession, Mike. You’ve got Rendon attacking, but St. Michael’s defense has been locking down when it matters most. Watch how they rotate — everyone’s in position.”

Donnelly:
“Marker swings left to Bragg… drives hard — Jefferson steps up, denies the lane… Fancher rotates over, hands up — Wilson fronting the passing lane… oh! Intercepted by Wilson at halfcourt!”

Dana McKee (sideline):
“Saints bench is on their feet! Toby Whittaker immediately clapping and pointing down the floor, urging them to push in transition. You can see the players feeding off that energy — Lee already sprinting to the other end.”

Rice:
“That’s textbook defense and team awareness. Everyone collapsed at the right moment, and Wilson’s anticipation created a huge swing. That’s how you protect a lead in a tight game.”

Donnelly:
“Wilson races down the floor… dishes to Lee on the wing… Lee pulls up mid-range — good! Saints extend the lead to 50–45, all off that defensive stop.”

Rice:
“That’s momentum, Mike. You get a stop, and suddenly the lead feels bigger. This group knows how to capitalize on every opportunity.”

Dana McKee:
“And you can see the intensity on the bench — Jefferson and Greeley nodding, communicating. This team is feeding off itself right now. Every possession is magnified, and they know it.”

NCAA Championship Game
The Louisiana Superdome
April 2, 2012

The Second Half

As the clock winds down in the second half, we switch to the call from Dan Kessler, the radio voice of the Saints.

Dan Kessler (radio play-by-play):
“All right folks, we’re under three minutes here in the national championship, Saints holding a slim 55–52 lead. Flames have it, Marker bringing it up — looking for a quick bucket to keep pace.


“Bragg drives into the lane, rises up for a contested jumper… oh! BLOCKED! McMillan rejects it at the rim! What a play by the sophomore center!


“Unbelievable timing by McMillan — reminds me of Brenner Turnbull, protecting this rim like it’s sacred territory. That’s the kind of play that shifts a game, right there!

“Saints keep possession — Caruso grabs it, fires a pass to Wilson, who’s looking to push… Saints controlling the clock now, 55–52. That’s what you call a momentum-preserving block!

“And the bench erupts on the call — you can hear the crowd, you can hear the energy — McMillan makes a name for himself in the biggest spotlight of his career.”


Dan Kessler (radio play-by-play):
“Alright, one twenty-one left, Saints clinging to a one-point lead, 62–61. Fancher grabs the rebound, quickly out to Jalen...Saints looking to push… Jalen dribbles into traffic, finds Jefferson breaking down the lane — he takes it strong, ALLEY-OOP! Malik Jefferson throws it down! Saints 64–61!

“That’s a textbook fast break finished with authority. Jefferson just exploded off the floor, nobody could stop him — pure power and timing! The junior from Cardinal O'Hara puts his mark on this championship game.

“The Flames trying to regroup, but the crowd is roaring… Saints’ bench is going wild on the call. You can hear Toby Whittaker yelling instructions and encouragement. The Flames need a bucket right here, and we need a stop.

"The clock is ticking down toward the one-minute mark. Theodore Marker into the frontcourt for the Flames. Picked up there by Wilson. Right side to Rendon. That's who David Martineau wants to have it.

"Rendon holds it, swings it to Marker. Eight to shoot now. Back over to Rendon...he fires a three. No good, but it's rebounded by Rosario. Back up and in. 64-63, 35 seconds left.

"Sandy Fancher to inbound for the Saints. He gets it to Jalen Wilson and the Flames foul him immediately.

"Jalen will step to the line to shoot one-and-one. He's an 89 percent shooter. Oh, dear...he missed it! The ball's tapped around for a bit until Rosario grabs it, and the Flames' hopes remain alive! They call time out with 27.4 seconds remaining. They lost a few seconds when they couldn't rebound the Wilson miss cleanly...

"The shot clock is off as the Flames bring it up. It's in King Rendon's hands. He's the nation's top scorer, and he has 22 points tonight. It's all come down to one possession.

"Rendon hands to Marker, who dribbles right. Jalen fights through the screen...oh, he got a hand on the ball, but Marker gets it back. Now back to Rendon. Eleven seconds left. Don't foul, Saints!

King fakes the pass inside to Rosario. Now he's going to drive. Floater over Greeley...NO GOOD! NO GOOD! Malik grabs the ball, and that's it!

The 2012 NCAA men's basketball champions are...(Dan's voice breaks)
...our St. Michael's College Saints!

One Shining Moment

The horn sounds, and the Superdome erupts. 64–63. St. Michael’s are national champions.

Toby Whittaker freezes for a heartbeat, letting the scoreboard sink in. Then, instinctively, he pumps his fists and lets out a yell, pure exhilaration coursing through him. Around him, the players explode — Caruso, Wilson, Jefferson, Greeley, and Fancher are hugging, high-fiving, laughing, and shouting. Toby steps into the middle of the swarm, sharing slaps on the back, pats on shoulders, and tight embraces, reveling in the shared triumph.

In the stands behind the Saints bench, Claire Whittaker gasps, clutching her mouth as tears threaten. She wraps her arms around her children, tiny but fierce spectators filled with joy. "We did it! We really did it!" she exclaims to them.

Toby scans the court and sees his family: Claire, beaming and holding Eli and Grace while Nora pumps her fists, all caught in the joy of the moment. Toby waves and points at them, then catches Claire’s eye, giving her a long, satisfied smile that mixes pride, relief, and pure happiness. Her eyes shine with tears of joy as her eyes meet his.

Grace squeals and tugs at Eli’s hand, spinning in excitement, while Nora shouts, pointing at Caruso and Jefferson, thrilled to see the players she’s been following all game. Toby walks over briefly, ruffling their hair and pulling them in for a hug, sharing a moment of quiet joy amid the chaos.

Meanwhile, the rest of the team continues celebrating. Walk-on Charles Laird is laughing uncontrollably, caught up in the euphoria despite not seeing action. Trevor McMillan pumps his fists, Desmond Lee looks up at the roof of the arena and releases a shout of joy. Matt Caruso, Joe Greeley, and Sandy Fancher embrace. No words are necessary.

Toby moves among the players, offering words of praise and gratitude. “You earned every second,” he tells Caruso. “Every stop, every pass, every bucket — this is yours.” He does the same for Jefferson, Wilson, and the rest, acknowledging both starters and role players alike.

Confetti begins to fall, cameras flash, and reporters push through, but Toby allows himself to soak in the full magnitude of the victory. He looks at the scoreboard again, then at his family, then at his team, and finally closes his eyes for a moment, breathing it all in. The roar of the crowd, the energy of the players, the joy of his children and wife — it’s a moment he knows will last a lifetime.

Then, with a last glance at the ecstatic players and the cheering fans, Toby Whittaker steps fully into the celebration, lifting his arms with the team, a coach, a husband, and a father savoring the pinnacle of a hard-fought season.

One Shining Moment

The horn sounds, and the Superdome erupts. 64–63. St. Michael’s are national champions.

Toby Whittaker freezes for a heartbeat, letting the scoreboard sink in. Then, instinctively, he pumps his fists and lets out a yell, pure exhilaration coursing through him. Around him, the players explode — Caruso, Wilson, Jefferson, Greeley, and Fancher are hugging, high-fiving, laughing, and shouting. Toby steps into the middle of the swarm, sharing slaps on the back, pats on shoulders, and tight embraces, reveling in the shared triumph.

In the stands, Claire Whittaker gasps, clutching her mouth as tears threaten. She wraps her arms around her children, tiny but fierce spectators filled with joy. "We did it! We really did it!" she exclaims to them.

Toby scans the court and sees his family: Claire, beaming and holding Eli and Grace while Nora pumps her fists, all caught in the joy of the moment. Toby waves and points at them, then catches Claire’s eye, giving her a long, satisfied smile that mixes pride, relief, and pure happiness. Her eyes shine with tears of joy as her eyes meet his.

Grace squeals and tugs at Eli’s hand, spinning in excitement, while Nora shouts, pointing at Caruso and Jefferson, thrilled to see the players she’s been following all game. Toby walks over briefly, ruffling their hair and pulling them in for a hug, sharing a moment of quiet joy amid the chaos.

Meanwhile, the rest of the team continues celebrating. Walk-on Charles Laird is laughing uncontrollably, caught up in the euphoria despite not seeing action. Trevor McMillan pumps his fists, Desmond Lee looks up at the roof of the arena and releases a shout of joy. Matt Caruso, Joe Greeley, and Sandy Fancher embrace. No words are necessary.

Toby moves among the players, offering words of praise and gratitude. “You earned every second,” he tells Caruso. “Every stop, every pass, every bucket — this is yours.” He does the same for Jefferson, Wilson, and the rest, acknowledging both starters and role players alike.

Confetti begins to fall, cameras flash, and reporters push through, but Toby allows himself to soak in the full magnitude of the victory. He looks at the scoreboard again, then at his family, then at his team, and finally closes his eyes for a moment, breathing it all in. The roar of the crowd, the energy of the players, the joy of his children and wife — it’s a moment he knows will last a lifetime.

Then, with a last glance at the ecstatic players and the cheering fans, Toby Whittaker steps fully into the celebration, lifting his arms with the team, a coach, a husband, and a father savoring the pinnacle of a hard-fought season.