2024-25 STCC Men’s Basketball Team Preview:

A New Era for the Rams

After a challenging 2-20 season last year, the Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Rams have made significant adjustments and additions to their roster and are poised for a strong rebound. The coaching staff has focused on addressing key issues from last year, including turnovers, rebounding, and outside shooting, setting the stage for what could be a transformative 2024-25 season.

Colin Rice, a 6’7″ point forward from Boca Raton, FL, will be the anchor for the Rams. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ, Rice is a smooth scorer at all three levels and is adept at creating opportunities for his teammates. His leadership on the court will be key to the team’s offensive execution.

Michael Ferrero, a 6’6″ forward from East Longmeadow, MA, is another crucial addition. An All-Western Mass selection, Ferrero brings toughness in the paint and is a much-improved shooter from the outside, making him a formidable inside-outside threat. His aggressive rebounding and shot-blocking will be vital in the Rams’ frontcourt.

Austin Smith, a 6′ guard from Windsor Locks, CT, arrives with championship experience after leading his high school to a state title in 2023. Smith is a complete guard with excellent shooting, passing, and ball-handling, making him a versatile option in the Rams’ backcourt.

Aidan Daly, a 6’2″ guard from Holliston, MA, is known for his ability to score in bunches. Daly’s outside shooting and strong drives to the basket will help stretch opposing defenses and provide a reliable offensive punch.

Blake Morrow, a 5’11” guard from New Braunfels, TX, joins the Rams after a stint at New England College. Morrow is an outstanding shooter who adds depth to the backcourt, and his vision and quickness make him a threat both as a playmaker and a scorer.

Amari Cruz, a 6’3″ guard from New Britain, CT, is a high-impact player. Cruz scored over 1,000 points in his high school career, led his team to a state championship, and was named a McDonald’s All-American nominee. His ability to score and attack the glass will be pivotal for the Rams.

Jeremy Bowers, a 5’11” guard from Harlem, NY, brings pedigree as the nephew of Louisville’s 2013 national champion Russ Smith Jr. Bowers is an elite scorer and playmaker who was the all-time leading scorer for the King Hoops AAU program. His quickness and shooting will boost the Rams’ offense.

Branden Torres, a 6’3″ guard/wing from Middletown, CT, was an All-Central Connecticut Conference performer. Torres offers strength, versatility, and the ability to handle the ball, score in the paint, and lead fast breaks, making him a well-rounded player on both ends of the floor.

Justin Phillips, a 5’9″ guard from Hartford, CT, is known for his outstanding shooting and quickness. Phillips’ blow-by speed and long-range shooting make him a dangerous scorer, capable of creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Jacob Yvon, a 6’6″ forward from Somers, CT, rounds out the incoming talent. Yvon is a true stretch-four with the ability to shoot from the perimeter, making him a perfect fit for the Rams’ system. His length will also help him compete for rebounds and block shots.

Lamonte Duffus, a 6’4″ guard from Bridgeport, CT, is expected to make a huge impact when he joins the team in the spring. A transfer from the University of Hartford, Duffus brings experience and defensive prowess, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. His experience and leadership will be vital for the Rams down the stretch.

Jared Harris, a 6’6″ wing, adds depth and athleticism to the roster. His ability to defend multiple positions and contribute in transition will make him a key role player for the Rams.

Quentin Outlaw, a 6’4″ forward, joins Harris in providing depth and energy. Outlaw brings a high motor, good touch around the rim, and will be a significant help on the boards and on defense.

Returning to the squad are sophomores Juan Cruz (5’8″), Travis Preston (6′), and Isaac Suggs (6’3″). Cruz spent much of last year running the point guard position and has keen insight of what to expect from league opponents. Preston, who ranked fourth in the league in drawing fouls last year, started every game last year for the Rams and Suggs, who was among the league leaders in blocked shots until a foot injury slowed him down will provide leadership and stability for the newcomers. Springfield Central’s Davonte Coleman and Ashland High School’s Shea Hastings round out the team and add depth at the guard and forward spots as the final two additions for the Ram’s program.

With a roster filled with talent and renewed energy, the 2024-25 STCC Rams are poised for a season of growth and resurgence.

2024-25 Schedule		Home Schedule
Date	Time	Opponent
Tue 11/19	7 p.m.	Roxbury CC*
Tue 11/26	7 p.m.	Quinsigamond CC*
Thu 12/5	7 p.m.	MassBay CC*
Mon 1/13	6 p.m.	Quincy CC*
Tue 1/21	7 p.m.	Massasoit CC*
Sat 1/25	2 p.m.	Bristol CC*
Thur 1/30	7 p.m.	Holyoke CC*
Thur 2/6	7 p.m.	Uconn Avery Point*
Thur 2/13	7 p.m.	Bunker Hill CC
Sat 2/15	2 p.m.	CCRI*
Tue 2/18	7 p.m.	Northern Essex CC