Hofstra fans are beaming with pride.
The Blue and Gold supporters enjoyed their team’s first NCAA Tournament appearance in 25 years, even though they lost to Alabama in a closer match than expected: 90-70 on Friday.
“They gave it their all,” said Hofstra season ticket holder Al Arthur. “It’s been quite an emotional ride.”
Arthur’s father watched the nail-biting game unfold at the Birdie Bar in Northport, as Hofstra jumped out to a lead of 16-2 at halftime, finishing the first half up 37-35. Birdie Bar owner Louis Selvaggio, a friend of head coach Speedy Claxton, was also there.
The bar was filled with enthusiastic fans, some sipping on blue cocktails dubbed “Speedy Tini,” crafted by staff members sporting Claxton jerseys.
Meanwhile, at Robke’s, a sister restaurant where Claxton celebrated after his CAA win, the atmosphere was electric. Server “Matti Birthday” led the crowd in a lively Hofstra cheer as the game kicked off.
Arthur’s friend, Ken Pira, a fellow season ticket holder, applauded the team for their tenacity right until the end, despite Alabama pulling ahead in the closing moments. “I think it really reflects the coaching style,” he remarked. “It’s truly speedy.”
Arthur’s wife, Carol, along with the others, noted how Hofstra’s standout players have caught national attention during this era of college transfers.
There was relief among the group when they learned that freshman superstar Preston Edmeade, who scored 24 points— the highest by a Hofstra player in March Madness since the 1970s— would return next season, as confirmed by his father, John.
“He’s quite remarkable,” Alex said of Edmeade. “I’d like to thank him for seeing beyond just chasing money.”
Selvaggio, who faced Claxton on the court years ago, expressed his delight in Hofstra becoming a topic of conversation again. “There’s so much buzz about them on Long Island,” he mentioned.
Before the game, he gifted Hofstra jackets to Claxton and Nets assistant coach Jay Hernandez, who played alongside Claxton during their college years from 2000 to 2001, the last two tournaments coached by Jay Wright.
“We’re incredibly proud of them. We’ll be back next year,” Selvaggio said.
