Written for The Argo by Sarah Kropinack and Danna Urias

The 2024-2025 season for Stockton University’s men’s basketball team was marked by intense moments, impressive performances, and valuable lessons. Despite facing several setbacks, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth throughout the year.

Among the season’s highlights were thrilling victories against rivals such as The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) and Rowan University.

It was a season defined by progress and opportunity. Although the Ospreys suffered tough losses, including a narrow defeat in the New Jersey Athletic Conference semifinal against Ramapo, they continued to prove their strength through standout individual and team performances. 

Stand-out Season Moments

One of the most memorable season moments for the team was when they earned a spot in the NCAA DIII Basketball Tournament, traveling to Massachusetts. However, the Ospreys unfortunately lost in the first round after facing Ithaca College. 

Although the Ospreys were eliminated in the first round, the experience was one that players like freshman Logan McKee and freshman Jahmir Payoute will never forget. Payoute reflected on his time as “a really great experience,” and McKee added how “unique” the experience was since both were able to start in the NCAA Tournament as freshmen, which not a lot of players get to do. Not only were the memories on the court unforgettable while in Massachusetts, but the off-court memories were just as amazing. The team was able to travel to the Basketball Hall of Fame and hang out together, which was a highlighted moment for the players. 

While speaking with the players many said the most memorable moment from the season was Stockton’s win over TCNJ and the back-to-back wins against Rowan. When the Ospreys faced the TCNJ Lions for the second time, at home, they were locked in a close contest. Junior EJ Matthews-Spratley led the way, while freshman Logan McKee provided an electric dunk in the first half that tied the game at 14-14. 

Stockton maintained a steady lead throughout the game, and in the final two minutes of the second half, Sophomore Michael Evans was subbed in. He scored back-to-back three-pointers, finishing with 10 points to help secure the second win of the season against TCNJ. 

In the game against Rowan, Payoute earned himself a double-double, scoring 16 points and grabbing 20 rebounds.

Head Coach Scott Bittner, mentioned Senior Martin Anguelov’s 45-point game at The College of New Jersey as one of the most memorable memories that stood out to him. Anguelov broke the school record for the most points made in a single game. Many players mentioned that the game held at TCNJ was a standout game of the season, noting that the energy in the gym was ecstatic. 

Moments Beyond the Court

Off the court, the team focused on bonding before the season began, recognizing that strong team chemistry was essential for success on the court. Payoute mentioned that one of his favorite memories was when the team bonded and went bowling together. Payoute emphasized how crucial these moments were for developing trust, sportsmanship, and a sense of unity. These bonding experiences allowed the players to build relationships, not just as teammates but as friends, which translated into better communication and teamwork during games.

As the season progressed, this camaraderie proved vital during challenging times, whether it was after a tough loss or during a high-pressure game. The sense of family and trust that was built off the court helped the team stay resilient, stay focused on their goals, and come together when they needed it most.

Looking Back: The Season’s Growth

Adding to the moment in Massachusetts, Head Coach Scott Bittner highlighted the effort that went into making it to the NCAA Tournament, as well as described the overall performance of the season as good and successful. 

Looking back throughout the season, Fifth Year Senior Jamar Johnson said he likes to look at this season from a positive standpoint. “Growth describes the season we had; Although we didn’t accomplish our bigger goals we set at the beginning of the year—a lot of guys came a long way mentally and physically from when the season started.”  

Freshmen Reflections

When asked about their experiences and transitions as freshmen, McKee and Payoute spoke about the growth they experienced and the opportunities they received.

“I like Stockton a lot and it’s a really great program for basketball, school, and overall,” highlighted Payoute.

While talking about the transition from high school to college, Payoute mentioned that the dynamic of the game is “really different” in college compared to high school, McKee also admitted, “The transition from Phelps [high school] to here, it was definitely a little rough, especially the pace of the game and how hard I had to work.”

They both mentioned the importance of the teammates and coach’s support while transitioning to Stockton.  

A Coach’s Influence

With the influence of Coach Scott Bittner, McKee said “His coaching style is different from what I’m used to. He focuses more on defense and fundamentals—he calls them big rocks and little rocks.” He continues, “Because of his style of coaching it’s made me improve and it made me the player I am today.” McKee acknowledges the significant role Bittner played in shaping his overall game, highlighting how the emphasis on defense and fundamentals has elevated his skills.

Matthews-Spratley also reflected on his experience under Bittner’s guidance, stating, “Playing under Coach Bitt is not for the weak, but it makes you grow as a player and, more importantly, as a person.” He elaborates on the intensity and demanding nature of his coaching style, noting that while it can be challenging, it ultimately helps players build resilience and character. 

Matthews-Spratley emphasizes the valuable lessons learned through the rigorous coaching style and how it prepares players for more than the sport itself.

Team and Individual Honors

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Matthews-Spratley was named to the NJAC First Team, a well-deserved honor for his leadership and contributions on the court, as well as the All-ECAC First Team. Matthews-Spratley was also voted NABC District 4 Second Team by the National Association of Basketball Coaches and D3hoops.com All-Region 4 Second Team.

During the 2024-2025 season, Matthews-Spratley completed a historic season for Stockton, setting a school record with an average of 22.9 points per game and totaling 642 points, which is the second-highest total in program history. The guard sank 94 three-pointers, which is the third most ever at Stockton. Matthews-Spratley also reached a career milestone, scoring 1,000 career points—256 points at The University of Scranton before transferring, and 744 points and counting at Stockton.

Meanwhile, sophomore Eriq Campbell earned NJAC Honorable Mention, further highlighting the individual talent that emerged throughout the season.

Coach Bittner highlighted that senior Christian Armstrong-Thomas had his best year at Stockton, not only growing as a player but also as a person off the court.

McKee and Payoute both earned NJAC Rookie of the Week honors multiple times during the season. 

For Payoute, it was a pleasant surprise, “It felt good getting awarded because I felt like a lot of players, especially freshmen, don’t always get that chance.”

McKee shared, “It’s definitely a confidence booster, and it’s really cool to have that support from your teammates when you win something like that.”

Not only were there many individual highlights but during the 2024-2025 season, Stockton was also ranked multiple times in the top 25 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Division III Rankings.

Looking Ahead

The players described the season as a mix of emotions—bittersweet, fortunate, interesting, and exciting. While there were moments of disappointment, the overall experience was one that they felt fortunate to have been a part of. The season provided valuable lessons and unforgettable moments, making it an exciting journey full of growth. Despite the ups and downs, the players found themselves reflecting on the unique nature of the season, appreciating both the challenges and the triumphs that shaped their experience.

Stockton bids farewell to three very notable seniors, Christian Armstrong-Thomas, Martin Anguelov, and Jamar Johnson.

Christian Armstrong-Thomas finished his two-year career at Stockton with 313 points while Jamar Johnson finished his 5-year career with 211 points.

In his three-year career at Stockton, Martin Anguelov suffered two season-ending injuries—one during the 2023-2024 season and another in the 2024-2025 season. It is currently unknown at this time if he will be offered another year of eligibility due to these injuries. However, he leaves behind a remarkable 702 points as a Stockton Osprey.

As the team looks toward the future, the lessons learned during this season will undoubtedly shape the Ospreys’ approach to the next. With a strong foundation of talent, hard work, and growth, Stockton’s Men’s basketball team is poised to continue making strides in the NJAC and beyond. The 2024-2025 season may have ended in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, but it set the stage for what promises to be a bright future for the program.