The Hofstra University men’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2023-24 season with a mix of new and returning players, aiming to bounce back after a tough loss to Stony Brook University in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Championship. The Pride hopes to reach the conference tournament again and possibly make an NCAA Tournament appearance.
Out of 14 players on the roster, only six are returning from last year: KiJan Robinson, Khalil Farmer, Jayden Henriquez, Eric Parnell, German Plotnikov, and Silas Sunday. Hofstra graduated CAA Player of the Year Tyler Thomas and lost starting point guard Jaquan Carlos and wing Darlinstone Dubar to the transfer portal.
Head coach Speedy Claxton was focused on recruiting guards who fit the Hofstra style—capable of dribbling, passing, and shooting. He noted the contributions of transfers like Jean Aranguren from Iona and Cruz Davis from St. John’s, as well as Carlos Lopez from Saint Francis, expressing optimism about the new talent.
Despite the roster changes, Claxton anticipates some initial growing pains. “We’ve always had a slow start and don’t really find our rhythm until mid-January or early February. We just need to be patient and allow the team to learn from their mistakes,” he said.
This year’s team is younger but talented. Finding a primary scorer in the absence of Thomas will be crucial, and Claxton sees junior transfer Jaquan Sanders stepping into that role. Sanders averaged 2.5 points per game at Seton Hall but has the potential to be a significant offensive contributor for the Pride.
Freshman Joshua DeCady is also expected to make an impact, bringing energy and athleticism to the court. Standing at 6-foot-8, he has a high motor and plays with intensity.
Plotnikov, the only returning starter, is prepared to take on a leadership role. “I’ve been showing the new guys how we operate and the culture here, and they’ve adapted quickly,” he said.
The team’s chemistry is strong, with Robinson noting, “We’ve bonded like a family in just a few months.” This unity, combined with a blend of athletic guards and powerful forwards, positions Hofstra for success.
Claxton emphasized that their identity will focus on defense fueling their offense, aiming to generate fast breaks for easy scoring opportunities. Robinson added, “Our goal is to be consistent. If we can stack good practices, we’ll be great.”
The players are committed to improving both individually and as a team. Plotnikov aims for consistency and to maintain his role as a tempo-setter, while Robinson has set shooting targets for himself.
Hofstra has an exciting non-conference schedule ahead, including a game against Seton Hall on November 13 and a trip to the Bahamas for the Baha Mar Hoops: Nassau Championship. Claxton expressed enthusiasm for these big-match atmospheres, especially with personal connections like facing childhood friend Shaheen Holloway.
The Pride’s season kicks off on November 4 at home against the State University of New York at Old Westbury, with tip-off set for 5 p.m.
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