The Mohawk Valley Hawks Men's Basketball team opened up their 2024-2025 campaign in the annual Torchia Classic today, against Kingsborough Community College at Mohawk Valley CC. 

The Hawks came out with great energy from the opening tip and were able to put together an impressive opening half. Led by Sophomore Guard Jamir Smith who contributed 17 opening half points to go with 6 assists in the opening 20 minutes. Freshman Center Andre Pasha was a force on both ends of the floor for the Hawks as an array of interior finishes and jump shots helped set the tone for the green and white right out of the gate. 

Furthermore, Sophomore St Rose Transfer Alex Barnhill was impressive as well, as his mix of jump shots and drives helped power the Hawks to their high level first half. 

Taking a 49-18 lead into half time, the shorthanded Hawks were able to continue to hold their lead by controlling the glass, sharing the basketball and competing with great energy on both ends of the floor. 

More scoring from Smith, Pasha and Barnhill continued to be a key for the Hawks, but the Hawks also received great contributions from Sophomore Guard AJ Burns who filled the stat sheet with 6 blocks, 5 steals, 4 points, 5 rebounds and a number of high IQ plays to help contribute to the Hawks victory.  

At the final horn, Mohawk Valley was able to secure the victory over Kingsborough by a final score of 92-57 in their season opener. 

Jamir Smith led the way with 27 points and 11 assists while running the Hawks offense. Andre Pasha contributed a monster double double of 21 points and 22 rebounds, as his first college game ended in a victory for the green and white. 

Sophomore Wing Alex Barnhill added 25 points and 17 rebounds for the Hawks. Ty Rivera added 9 points and 4 steals, and Cam Pownall added 6 points and 8 rebounds in his impressive debut for Mohawk Valley. 

"We were really connected from the opening tip, and played with great energy, effort and unselfishness for the majority of this game. We got great contributions across the board, and it was great to get out on the floor in front of our home fans and raise money for a great cause while doing so. We look forward to continuing to improve and compete as we now jump right into Region 3 play this coming week." Coach Harley Fuller said following the victory.

The Hawks will be back in action Wednesday evening at home as they take on Herkimer in a contest slated for 7:30 PM on the campus of Mohawk Valley CC.