With significant room for growth, the Rosemont Men's Basketball Program focused on developing well-rounded student-athletes both on and off the court. The foundation built during the program's early years created stepping stones for future teams to grow and flourish, leading to a historic moment in the 2018–2019 season when the Men's Basketball team captured Rosemont's only Colonial States Athletic Conference championship.
Robert Hughes
2018-2019 Head Coach of Rosemont's Men's Basketball team
Robert Hughes reflects on the memorable 2018–2019 championship season, which was his seventh year leading the program. Looking back, Coach Bob attributes that year's success to the foundation built in previous seasons. Each year, the team grew stronger, developing a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities. He recalls that the championship roster had a special blend of talent and teamwork. "This group was hardworking," Coach Bob said. "We had a great mix of skilled players who also embraced their roles."
Coach Bob also reflected on how unique and special he feels the championship day was. The 2018–2019 Men's Basketball title marked the first championship in the history of the program and Coach Bob's first as head coach. Sharing that victory with the Women's Basketball team, who also won their championship that year, made the moment even more special for him.
Coach Bob emphasizes that the early games of the season set the tone for their championship run. A pivotal win over Arcadia sparked the team's momentum and confidence. Reflecting on the journey, Coach Bob admits that the team's biggest challenge at the start of the season was actually him. As a coach, he had to recognize his players' abilities and learn when to step back to let them grow. "Sometimes the best coaching is coaching less," Coach Bob said. "I let my players be players." Coach Bob's approach paid off, as several players stepped up with game-changing plays during the championship. Sophomore Marlon Sharpton drove hard to the basket, drawing a foul and sinking crucial free throws to help secure the win. Senior Jalil Myers came through with a key offensive rebound and a perfectly timed backdoor cut in crunch time. Junior Keith Blassingale hit a clutch shot that extended the lead, while fellow junior Nick Gemmell sealed the victory with a decisive steal. Coach Bob emphasized that every player contributed and each member of the team played his part in bringing home the championship.
"Rosemont means so much to me," Coach Bob shared. "I've built lasting relationships within this community, and I've raised my family here. The connections I've made at Rosemont truly matter."
He also offered advice to younger athletes: "No matter what you do, embrace the moment you're in. Always have that next-play mindset, trust your coaches, trust your teammates, and most importantly, be a good teammate."
When asked to describe Rosemont in one word, Coach Bob chose "special."
Click HERE to read a full recap of the 2018-2019 Championship season written by Tyler Scarpulla.
As the Rosemont Men's Basketball Program chapter comes to an end, players across the program are reflecting on what the experience has meant to them both on and off the court.
Zaki Gomez
Senior Guard
Senior leader Zaki Gomez looks back on his years as a Raven. Gomez says the memories he'll cherish most is the brotherhood formed within the Program. "Spending time with my teammates, building families, communities, and chemistry on and off the court." Gomez also highlighted one of his favorite moments from the 2022–2023 season which was when Mike Herrin tossed an alley-oop off the glass to Zaire Mitchell, who finished it with a dunk. The gym filled with cheers, a perfect picture of the energy and culture of the Rosemont Ravens.
Gomez highlights his personal and team goals for this final season. "Win the championship. Increase his personal stats in all categories. Better record, better attitude, and a better leader." His commitment to improvement reflects on his personal motivation for himself and dedication to his teammates. As the program prepares to close, Zaki wants his team to be remembered as resilient. "We went out with a fight," he said he wants it to be known that "We didn't give up after the news. We were serious and we were fighters."
Zaki's advice to younger athletes during this transition emphasizes discipline and consistency as keys to navigating change. He says, "Work hard, work smart, follow your goals and stay on course."
Brandon Moore
Senior Forward
As Rosemont College prepares to close the book on its athletic program, senior forward Brandon Moore reflects on his experience as a Raven. Moore's time at Rosemont has been defined by resilience. He recalls a journey filled with challenges, important learning opportunities and lessons passed down from veteran players before him. Those experiences shaped him into a leader for younger players going through this difficult transition. "It was tough," he said, "these were obstacles I had to overcome. I learned from the upperclassmen and it helped me grow. Now I get to be a leader for the younger guys. Moore encourages younger athletes to stay curious and intentional during the transition. "Continue to learn, be open, ask questions and look to be a leader, be knowledgeable. He adds: "Take everything you learned at Rosemont and apply it to your future."
For Moore, the heart of the program is the people. From teammates to coaches to the broader community, the bonds formed in the gym and on the court are what he cherishes most. "I'll miss the people you meet and the togetherness of the team," he reflected.
Looking ahead, Moore is focused on one clear objective that is to "win more games this year," he said very focused and confidently. And when it comes to memorable moments, one game stands out above the rest, a match-up against Valley Forge during the 2022-2023 season, "Zaire Mitchell hit a floater to tie the game and send it into overtime," Moore recalled. The Rosemont Ravens won that game in overtime 107-105. It was a moment to remember.
