Men's Basketball Finishes a Stellar Season with End of the Year Luncheon

The men's basketball team wrapped up an amazing season with an end-of-the-year luncheon, that celebrated every member of the team and staff.

"It's been so fun to watch the team this season and they made us very proud," commented Assistant Director of Athletics & Fitness Center Josh Cole. "It's a great stepping stone for what's to come."

Men’s Head Basketball Coach John Preziosa had a glowing review of the teamwork and planning that led to their success this year. 

"This great season wasn't a surprise to us because we are big on setting goals. Our short goal was to get 10 wins, our long goal was to get into the tournament and our major goal was to win the tournament. We crossed off two of those goals. We wished it, planned it and then did it. That makes it sound easy, but it is easy when we have the right people involved," he said.

Coach Preziosa also praised the support that came from the QCC community this year.  Preziosa expressed deep gratitude for the various departments and staff that pitched in throughout the season, from Mail Clerk Rich Small who took photos throughout the season, to Media Services that provided a live stream, as well as everyone who attended games. 

"Seeing all the people showing up like that it makes us realize we have a shot. We could feel the school rallying behind us and building support. And we had some challenging situations, we lost a few guys, so that support got us through that,"  Preziosa said.

Coach Preziosa spoke about each player on the team, adding in anecdotes about their personal journey and their strengths. He also noted some of the challenges and how players such as Alex Duvall and Avery Jacobs have faced adversity, but they never let it define them and worked hard to stay positive.

"I saw the team rally around each other and it really speaks to the character of these players. This year we really did become a family," he said.

Assistant Coach Corey Gomes spoke about player Johnny Annan.

 "I loved being able to see you grow, the leap you've taken. You are one of our biggest leaders, one of our most talented players, the game is not the same when you're on the floor. Defensively you're a menace, offensively I've seen you make strides  You're only going to get better and continue to grow," he said.

Sean Manning was named captain for the upcoming season and Preziosa noted that Manning achieved a school record during the game against Springfield Technical Community College where he made 11 three-pointers and scored a total of 41 points. 

"He's like a tornado out there," said Preziosa.

This year's MVP, Luka Vlajkovic, was praised for his quiet yet effective leadership and having 14 double-doubles on his record this season.

"We're very excited to have Luka back next year. He lives in Melrose so it hasn't been the easiest thing for him to participate but this made me stay on point, so I'm not doing him a disservice. The sky is the limit for this guy," Coach Preziosa said.

Assistant Coach Bruce Marchand had an emotional sendoff as he will be working at Rivier University in New Hampshire next year.

"I didn't want to leave QCC, but I have to try to make the best of my success here. Coach Preziosa changed my life, so to all the guys, just trust him; he's got your best interest in his heart. You'll always be family to me," Marchand said.

The 2022/2023 roster with awards:

• Johnny Annan - Iron Man Award, NJCAA All-Region
• Emmanuel Boderbe - Most Improved Player
• Owen Diotte
• Alex Duvall
• Averryoryon Jacobs
• Connor Manning
• Sean Manning - Co-Coaches Award, NJCAA All-Region
• Trevor Oliver - Coaches' Award
• Darnell Thomas
• Christopher Towns
• Luka Vlajkovic - Most Valuable Player, NJCAA All-Region