Men’s Basketball Advances in NCAA Tournament with Back-to-Back Wins at Home

Ashley McDermott ’26

Executive Sports Editor

The top-ranked Trinity College men’s basketball team continued their postseason success with two victories this past weekend, March 6 and March 7, at the Ray Oosting Gymnasium. This advances the team to the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Tournament. 

In the first round on March 6, Trinity College bantams defeated Keuka Wolves 74-63. The Bentams improved to 26-2 on the season while Keuka finished at 15-14. 

Friday’s game challenged the bantams, as the wolves took advantage of turnovers and timely shooting. With two minutes left in the first half, Keuka caught up to Trinity with a score of 23-22. The Bantams responded with fire, especially from Captain #3 Henry Vetter ‘26. After an intense altercation over ball possession and a lengthy time, the Bantams lost control over the ball entering halftime at 29-23. Trinity opened the second half with #11 scoring 2 points. The Bantams applied offensive pressure onto Keuka, weaving in and out of Keuka defense. With ten minutes left, Trinity sat ten points behind Keuka, but Vetter and Ayles each shot three pointers, leading to a tie at 45 points. Trinity surged in the second half altogether, outscoring Keuka 52-49. Notably, Vetter led the team with 26 points. The Bantams took control and took their time in the final minutes, securing the first round victory and a move on in the tournament. 

The very next day, Trinity faced Babson Beavers in the Ray Oosting Gymnasium. This game followed a steady rhythm, with the teams matching each other’s energy and pacing. Both teams traded baskets, with Trinity committing to internal play while Babson shot beyond the arc. Trinity faced another challenge at halftime, with Babson leading 31-27 and Trinity trailing as much as ten points behind early in the second half. Once again, the Bantams used this opportunity to spark defensive intensity leading to a comeback. Trinity gradually chipped away at the lead by pressuring Babson’s guards and taking advantage of turnovers. Trinity cut the score deficit by two points, thanks to Vetter and Berry ‘27. Trinity reached another lead in the game, holding tighter defense, limiting Babson’s scoring.  

The game finished with a 71-61 win for the Bantams. Vetter once again led the game with 20 points, Lazarre ‘26 and Berry each added 11. 

Despite entering both games as the higher-ranked team, Trinity’s entrance to the Sweet 16 was challenging. Each game this past weekend provided score deficits before the Bantams rallied past their opponent. The crowd at these games brought the fire and passion to the match, cheering on the men’s team and celebrating each shot. Head Coach James Cosgrove led the team from the sidelines, holding his players accountable for their technique, resilience and skills. The bantams played the games with discipline and composure, even when trialing behind an opponent. 

With the two victories, Trinity improves and will go on to face Hood Blazers this upcoming weekend. Trinity will continue on their resilient path to once again be crowned NCAA Division III champions. For now, the Trinity College community celebrates a successful opening weekend, where our bantams fought for their well deserved ranking in the division.