Jersey Shore Invitational by Ray Floriani TOMS RIVER, N.J. – A week ago Wednesday, I received the call from Joe Held. A Northeast Conference official, Joe and I have worked together in camp and on high school games. “We need a third partner,” Joe says. “Rene Ruth (another NEC official […]

Players Choice Works for More Than the Players by Ray Floriani RAMAPO, N.J. – The opening line of the coaches’ packet is an introduction that can qualify as a statement of purpose: “The Players Choice has a mission to improve the forum in which college coaches evaluate potential recruits.” On […]

For These Men, Basketball is Life by Ray Floriani LYNDHURST, N.J. – It is only fitting how it worked out. Jim Boeheim, Hubie Brown and Jim Calhoun were elected into the Basketball Hall of Fame on the same day. Yes, it was only appropriate the three go in together. Their […]

2005 NIT Final: An Instant Classic by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – For the record, there is listed a champion and runner-up. In one respect it doesn’t do justice. The finals of the 68th NIT saw South Carolina and St. Joe’s battle it out the full forty minutes. Players expended […]

NIT Title Game is Set by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – It will be St. Joe’s and South Carolina battling for the championship of the 68th annual National Invitation Tournament on Thursday. It promises to be an interesting final with the respective teams facing specific challenges. St. Joe’s has to […]

Notes from Media Day at the NIT Final Four by Ray Floriani NEW YORK – Gary Williams has coached over three decades. He has seen success in the Big Ten, Big East and ACC. He has a national championship on his resume. Still, the veteran mentor recalls his first NIT […]

Seton Hall Prep Takes Title by Ray Floriani EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – It was unfortunate, but someone had to come out on the short end. Seton Hall Prep and St. Pat’s met in a classic battle at Continental Airlines Arena. At stake was the New Jersey Boys Tournament of Champions […]