The Merrimack men’s basketball team is preparing to host Siena at Lawler Arena on Friday night, with the game set to be broadcast nationally on ESPNU. The matchup has drawn attention for its defensive intensity and fan engagement, according to ESPNU analysts Derek Jones and Tim Welsh.
Jones noted the significant impact of head coach Joe Gallo on Merrimack’s performance this season. “I think any time teams have seasons like this, you look at the head coach,” Jones said. “The head coach is a reflection of the team’s personality, if that makes sense. He’s definitely preached that ‘Make Chaos’ mantra, and the team is living it on the floor defensively. They’ve bought in.”
Merrimack has limited opponents to an average of 66.7 points per game, using an aggressive zone defense that has held opposing teams to just 29% shooting from three-point range. Welsh described their defensive play as “just so impressive.”
Jones also highlighted Gallo’s influence beyond the court: “He has created a culture that extends beyond what goes on on the floor,” he said. “It’s extended to what’s going on with the fans. And I’m really looking forward to the game because these are two of the most passionate fan bases in the MAAC. And I think that’s really going to make for some pretty entertaining television.”
With Merrimack approaching a regular-season title and currently holding the top seed in their conference tournament, Friday’s game carries additional significance. A win over Siena combined with a St. Peter’s loss would secure at least a share of the regular-season championship for Merrimack.
“I think that’s a little bit of the backdrop for tomorrow,” Jones said. “Look, regardless of what happens in March, winning a regular-season title still means something to teams. There’s a lot at stake for the game.
“And you can make the case this is a match up to win Player of the Year in (Gavin) Doty and, obviously, Kevair (Kennedy),” Jones continued. “This is a really big match up, and I love that this is on TV. Love it.”
Welsh commended freshman Kevair Kennedy for his recent achievements; Kennedy earned his first Player of the Week honor along with five Rookie of the Week awards and enters Friday’s contest averaging 17.7 points per game while shooting 47% from the field.
Tip-off at Lawler Arena is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.
