Welcome to the jungle.

Hofstra head coach Speedy Claxton is stepping into March Madness with enthusiasm, eager to make his mark on the respected program in the days ahead.

“Hopefully, we can get a player like North Carolina, someone with a rich history,” the former NBA champion shared.

“We’re not just there to enjoy the moment… our goal is to win,” he emphasized.

It’s clear why Claxton recognizes that Long Island, boasting a record of 24-10, seeks respect rather than handouts.

The strong Predators faced challenges in the ACC this season but fought hard on their way to the competitive CAA Championship, overcoming the Pittsburgh Panthers 80-73 and the Syracuse Orange 70-69.

“We’re going to be a force to be reckoned with,” Claxton declared.

“They tie their shoes like we do. They wear the same uniforms. They’re just another opponent. It’s nothing out of the ordinary for us.”

lion story

Hofstra’s journey has taken too long to bear fruit. After 25 years of ups and downs and three near-misses in conference finals (two of which occurred while Claxton was an assistant coach), the duo found success in 2020. That year saw them pull off an 88-78 upset over UCLA, followed by a 70-61 victory over Northeastern for the CAA title, a payback for a previous setback against the Huskies.

However, their shining moment was overshadowed by COVID-19, which halted March Madness 2020, preventing Hofstra from reveling in Selection Sunday.

“Damn. Every time something happened,” Claxton reflected, recalling his own college experience. He had gone to celebrate with Jay Wright as a senior at Hofstra in 2000.

Those years were full of close calls, though, thankfully, minus the global pandemic.

“Every year we’d just miss out, but we kept pushing on. It was a special time for that team.”

Claxton took over his friend and mentor’s program in 2021, bringing a renewed spirit as Mihalich had taught him everything from drills to team management.

The squad gained attention with a dramatic comeback, defeating Rutgers 88-86 in overtime in the first round of the 2023 NIT, marking a high point in Claxton’s coaching journey.

That was right before they clinched their tournament spot by beating Monmouth 75-69 last week.

“I just couldn’t believe what we achieved,” Claxton said, filled with disbelief at the final buzzer.

“It’s been a long journey.”

proud moment

Now, Claxton wants to spotlight his players in the way they deserve.

“We deserve a standing ovation because we’ve earned it,” Claxton expressed, reflecting on the warm welcome he received at one of his favorite restaurants, Rob’s in Northport.

“It’s earned, and now we have some national recognition.”

What would truly matter to Claxton is, hopefully, his team experiencing the celebration that comes with breaking through to March Madness.

“For most of our players, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” he remarked, holding his breath until the official tip-off.

“I want the kids to witness Selection Sunday, hear their name called, practice, play, and fully embrace the experience.”

According to Claxton, the main challenge heading into the NCAA Tournament is managing the “anxiety” that comes from such a lifelong opportunity.

He’s not worried about players like Preston Edmead, the CAA Newcomer of the Year, who clinched a near-buzzer-beater in the 68-65 semifinal against Towson.

“Knowing my players, they will rise to the occasion,” Claxton shared.

“I’m excited to share this journey with them.”