In a thrilling intrasquad scrimmage between the Springfield Technical Community College Rams’ Gold and Black teams, fans were treated to an exhilarating contest that came down to the final shot. With just 6 seconds left, Branden Torres, who had been a force for Team Black, attempted a potential game-winning shot that would have clinched a 1-point victory. The ball, however, bounced off the front of the rim, allowing Team Gold to escape with a hard-fought win.
The game, held on Nov. 1 in the gymnasium at Scibelli Hall, was tied at halftime, with both teams displaying their intensity and familiarity from weeks of practice. Defenses were locked in, knowing each other’s moves inside and out, while the coaches skillfully called timeouts to halt momentum and spark fresh runs. The high-energy showdown saw multiple lead changes, showcasing both teams’ tenacity as Gold mounted a late-game comeback to overcome a deficit.
Team Black surged early in the first half with a 9-0 run, punctuated by a thunderous Torres dunk that forced Coach Diamond to call a timeout. His guidance helped Team Gold recover, closing the gap as they fought back to tie the game at the break. The teams’ intricate ball movement and team play hinted at the cohesive offense the Rams aim to bring to the 2024-25 season.
For Team Gold, freshman standout Mike Ferrero anchored his team with a dominant 21-point performance. Freshman forward Jake Yvon also shined, delivering 15 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, with his early three-point shooting helping to keep Gold in the contest. Aidan Daly added 17 points, sinking key shots from beyond the arc, while team captain Austin Smith was a versatile force, tallying 8 points, 12 assists, and 8 rebounds. Freshman Justin Phillips contributed 12 points and 4 rebounds, while Quentin Outlaw, fresh off leading the STCC Men’s Soccer team to the playoffs, added 3 points in limited minutes. Veteran Travis Preston, though scoring just 2 points, was a steady presence, creating opportunities for his teammates.
Team Black was led by Freshman Branden Torres, who poured in 20 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Sophomore transfer Lamonte Duffus was a scorching 6-for-8 from the field, including three treys, finishing with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Sophomore Blake Morrow played the distributor role, contributing 12 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. Freshman Colin Rice added a well-rounded stat line with 9 points, 5 assists, and 7 rebounds, while freshman Jeremy Bowers chipped in 9 points. Sophomores Juan Cruz and Isaac Suggs each added 3 points, bringing stability and poise as Team Gold mounted their comeback.
Freshmen Jared Harris and Amari Cruz were held out of the scrimmage as precautionary as they both are dealing with nagging injuries that should not keep them out for the season opener.
In a game filled with momentum swings, sharp shooting, and defensive stands, the Rams’ intrasquad scrimmage set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season ahead.
Learn more about STCC men’s basketball and their schedule of games.
