Falcons Remain Undefeated as Postseason Approaches

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — FEB. 12, 2025 — The Dutchess Community College men’s basketball team has risen to the top of the NJCAA Division III rankings, holding the No. 1 spot with an undefeated 21-0 record (14-0 in Region XV).

Led by Head Coach Robert Piano and Assistant Coaches Justin Kinlock, Conor Maisch, Matthew Randolph and Ian Umpierre, the Falcons have built their success on dominant defensive play and a roster of standout student-athletes.

“We have had much success thus far due to our defensive play,” Piano said. “The players have bought into the defensive philosophy. We have been able to take teams out of running their offense and are constantly disruptive. For the remainder of the season, it is one day at a time—looking to improve on the parts of the game we need to get better at while preparing for the next opponent.”

The team’s leadership includes key sophomores, Joseph Battle, Prince Kamate, Quincey Platt and Seiray Sinerna, sophomore transfers Alijah England and Amadou Diallo, along with a talented freshman class.

“It’s been tremendous watching the dedication of our coaches and student-athletes,” said DCC Director of Athletics Matt Paquet. “The players have committed themselves to being model student-athletes, prioritizing academics and athletics. Their success can be attributed to the entire college community providing support and resources that allow them to flourish.”

The Falcons will celebrate their sophomore student-athletes at their home game against Fulton-Montgomery Community College on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. They will conclude the regular season on Feb. 20 against Orange County Community College before beginning postseason play. DCC will host a quarterfinal matchup on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. 

For more on DCC athletics, including information for prospective student-athletes and a schedule of upcoming games, visit dutchessfalcons.com.

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Founded in 1957, Dutchess Community College is a two-year community college that has earned a reputation for providing an outstanding education and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New York state. The College currently has four locations including its main campus in Poughkeepsie, DCC @ Fishkill, DCC @ HVR Airport, and DCC @ the Family Partnership Center. For more information visit www.sunydutchess.edu.