As they enter the new year and the heart of Patriot League competition, Colgate University’s men’s basketball team is proving why they are a formidable force in the conference. While their overall record sits at 9-12, their 6-2 conference performance (as of Jan. 27) showcases their ability to push through early challenges. With their tough non-conference schedule in the rearview mirror, Colgate is determined to maintain its momentum as they approach the second round of matchups against Patriot league opponents.
Their lone conference loss, a 66-60 defeat to Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pa. on Sunday, Jan. 5, marked a rare stumble for a program accustomed to dominance in recent years. However, just two weeks later, on Monday, Jan. 20, Colgate demonstrated their ability to make key adjustments, as they bounced back with an 87-80 win over the Bison at home at Cotterell Court. The victory was made even sweeter when fifth-year forward Jeff Woodward reached a career milestone, becoming the 42nd player in program history to score 1,000 points.
In previous seasons, Colgate’s starting lineup primarily featured upperclassmen with extensive experience competing against top Division I programs. This year, the team’s only two seniors and one fifth-year have embraced crucial leadership roles, sharing their knowledge and experience to guide their teammates.
Reflecting on the season’s challenges, Woodward highlighted how his role as an experienced player and leader has become more important than ever this season.
“In years past, we’ve had a ton of guys who had been there before, had gone through it, and knew what it takes to compete at the highest level and for championships,” Woodward said. “This year, we are a really young team, and I think it was beneficial for us to face the challenges we did in the first half of the season and grow from them.”
This emphasis on growth and resilience is a shared sentiment among senior leadership. Senior guard Chandler Baker praised the underclassmen for their dedication and commitment to improvement as they have strived to exceed expectations and integrate into such a successful program.
“I feel like we introduced them to what they have to do, and they follow the example we set, which is Colgate basketball,” Baker said. “A lot of guys like to get in extra work, not just in practice but outside of it. They show that they want to get better every day.”
With over half of their in-conference schedule remaining, and a sixth consecutive Patriot League title in their sights, the team remains focused on avoiding complacency. Senior guard Nicolas Louis-Jacques explained that their mindset heading into rematches is to respect every opponent while maintaining confidence in their abilities.
“It’s a combination of being confident and humble at the same time,” Louis-Jacques said. “Knowing that we are capable of beating these teams and having shown we can, but not getting comfortable or complacent with where we are.”
With their recent success in conference play and unwavering confidence, the team looks to maintain momentum, strengthen their position in the Patriot League standings and make their mark with a deep postseason run. This resolve was tested when Colgate traveled to Washington, D.C. to face American University, the team currently leading the Patriot League with a 12-9 record and fell 81-77. The next home game for the Raiders will be Saturday, Feb. 1 against Lafayette College.
