Speedy Claxton, Hofstra not backing down from chance to make March Madness noise: ‘Force to be reckoned with’ Hofstra head coach Speedy Claxton is approaching March Madness with confidence, positioning his team as a contender capable of making a significant impact. The former NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs emphasized that Hofstra is not merely seeking to participate but to compete at the highest level. “We’re not going there just to be happy we’re there … we’re trying to win,” Claxton said, reflecting his team’s determination. The 24-10 Long Island squad has emerged as a formidable force, having challenged established programs in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and secured a hard-fought CAA championship. Their victories over Pittsburgh and Syracuse, including a 70-69 upset of the Syracuse Orange, underscore their growing reputation. Claxton described Hofstra as a “force to be reckoned with,” a label that aligns with their recent success and the expectations now placed on them. Hofstra’s journey to this moment has been long and arduous, marked by a 25-year drought since their last March Madness appearance. The program faced numerous challenges, including a global pandemic that canceled the 2020 tournament before Hofstra could qualify. Despite setbacks, the team persevered, culminating in a historic 88-78 upset over UCLA in 2020. However, the pandemic disrupted their path to the NCAA Tournament, leaving them without the chance to experience the spotlight. Claxton, who played for Hofstra under coach Jay Wright in 2000, has been instrumental in rebuilding the program since taking over in 2021. His mentorship under former coach Joe Mihalich provided a foundation for success, and the team has since made strides, including an overtime victory over Rutgers in the 2023 NIT.#atlantic_coast_conference #pittsburgh #speedy_claxton #hofstra #caa_championship
