Robert Morris Basketball Makes NCAA Return After Historic Horizon League Win

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Robert Morris Colonials men’s basketball team secured a place in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in a decade, triumphing over Youngstown State 89-78 in the Horizon League championship on March 11, 2025.

Head coach Andy Toole, who is celebrating his 15th season at the helm, acknowledged the significance of the victory. “They’ll have the best week of their lives,” Toole said, anticipating the excitement leading up to Sunday’s selection show. “When these guys hear their name, it will be a feeling they never felt.” This monumental achievement follows a tumultuous period where the program faced setbacks, including a canceled 2020 tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Colonials, now boasting a record of 26-8, completed the season with an impressive 10-game winning streak, having won 16 of their last 17 games. Graduate student Ismael Plet reflected on the hard work that led to their success. “You’ll remember the moments not wanting to go to practice, wanting to quit,” he said. “That’s what March Madness embodies.”

Alvaro Folgueiras, the Horizon League Player of the Year, emphasized the team’s effort since day one. “We’re champions now, but we were champions on effort from Day 1,” Folgueiras stated, highlighting the team dynamic that propelled them to victory.

Six of the team’s top seven scorers were recruited from the transfer portal, with Plet being a notable exception. His previous experiences, including a run to the Sweet 16 with Oral Roberts in 2021, may contribute to the team’s resilience.

Key performances in the championship game included senior guard Kam Woods, who scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, and Amarion Dickerson, who added 13 points. Toole praised the team for their composure during challenging moments, especially during a tense semifinal where they overcame a 13-point deficit against Oakland.

Upon their return to campus, the team was greeted by cheering fans and a pep band, reflecting the community’s joy and support for the players. Speculation around their NCAA matchup is already circulating, with projections sending RMU to face No. 2 Tennessee as a 15-seed. Plet noted that the specific opponent doesn’t matter, emphasizing their unwavering confidence in winning.

Looking ahead, Toole has scheduled practice sessions for the team and emphasized the importance of maintaining their competitive spirit. “I’m sure they’ll be spirited practices. Why not?” he said.

This NCAA Tournament appearance is a defining moment for Robert Morris University, especially after their absence from the stage since 2015. “This year, it’s amazing to represent your school,” alumni Josh Williams commented, reflecting on what it means for the program and the community. “They’re bringing that recognition back to Moon Township.”