2024-25 Men's Basketball Preview

SALEM, Mass. -- Salem State men's basketball was picked to finish 4th in a vote by the league's seven head coaches in the MASCAC Men's Basketball Pre-Season Poll, which was released on Wednesday, October 30. Bridgewater State claimed four first place votes for 33 points, followed by Westfield State, who received 29 points, and one first place vote. Defending champion Worcester State - 26 points and Salem State - 23 points split the remaining two first place votes and round out the top four. 

Head coach Chris Harvey begins his 18th season after leading Salem State to a 12-13 record and fifth place finish in the MASCAC with a 5-7 conference mark in 2023-2024. Coach Harvey is optimistic that Salem State can compete for a conference title this season. The Vikings return All-MASCAC Second-Team selection and 1,000 point scorer Michael Makiej (Andover, Mass.). The senior forward was fourth in the MASCAC in scoring and rebounding with an 18.0 ppg average and 7.8 rpg average. Also returning on the offensive front is sophomore Nicholas Martinez (Revere, Mass.), who produced a 16.4 ppg average a year ago, before an injury ended his season. Grad-student Liam Byrne (Melrose, Mass.), anchors the defense at 6'9" while Tyrese Rho (Boston, Mass.), a point-guard transfer from Bentley University, has the ability to impact the game of both ends of the floor. 6'6" guard Omri Merryman (Lynn, Mass.), who appeared in 20 games last season, is poised for a breakout sophomore season.  

Coach's Quote

"This is the most depth of talent we've had in years. The return of Nick Martinez from a season-ending injury in 2023 will impact our roster greatly. All-MASCAC forward Michael Makiej returns for his senior campaign with the ability to score at multiple levels. Our goal for the 2024-25 season is always 'to come together as one' and challenge for the league championship.

From The Captain - Guard, Wil Martinez (Revere, Mass.)

"We have a great group of guys this year. It has been very competitive and everyone wants to win. We're ready to compete for the league title."

2024-25 New Players to Watch

Batu Goktas, 6'8" from DME Academy via Turkey will add length and scoring ability from the wing. 

Season Opener

Salem State opens the season at home against Colby Sawyer on Saturday, November 9th at 12:00 pm.

2024-25 MASCAC Men's Basketball Pre-Season Poll