Following the events of last night’s Northeast Conference men’s basketball championship game, our team, staff and all of the students that traveled to support us are home safe. After the game was stopped in the second half due to an altercation in the stands, we made the decision to remove our band, spirit teams and fans from the arena. No Wagner student was directly involved in the incident, but we decided to remove ourselves from the increasingly hostile and unmanageable environment.
Today, NEC Commissioner Noreen Morris announced a thorough investigation of last night’s events and an immediate review of game management policies. I want to echo Commissioner Morris’s statement that everyone who attends an NEC event must feel welcome and safe.
I am proud of Coach Mason, our team and coaches, and our other students and staff in attendance for the sportsmanship and character they displayed in the face of undeserved adversity.
I am also grateful for our Campus Life team who greeted our returning students late last night to ensure their safety and well-being. Any students still seeking support should connect to the Dean’s Office when they are ready. We are here to support you in every way that we can.
Despite the unfortunate ending, our men’s basketball team had a successful season on the court and in the classroom. They were a joy to watch, and they have our gratitude and respect.
We congratulate Bryant’s team for their Northeast Conference championship. Neither team deserved the ending they received last night, and I look forward to working with the conference to ensure our students' safety is prioritized at all events.
Angelo Araimo
Interim President
Wagner College
