The St. Thomas men's basketball season concluded with a 67-52 defeat to Seattle University in the NIT, ending their run with a commendable record of 24-10. Nolan Minessale led the team with 15 points and contributed eight in the second half, highlighting a season where the Tommies achieved three consecutive 20-win seasons. After a strong start, St. Thomas fell victim to a scoring drought and struggled in the second half, allowing Seattle U to pull ahead decisively. This loss marks the second time the Tommies have faced Seattle U, with both being during their inaugural season in NCAA Division I play. Despite the setback, the season showcased significant progress as it marked their first experience in NCAA postseason play.

By the Numbers
  • St. Thomas finished the season with 24 wins, achieving at least 20 wins for the third consecutive year.
  • Nolan Minessale scored 15 points, leading the team in the final game.
State of Play
  • St. Thomas started strong but endured a scoring drought in the second half, leading to their defeat.
  • The team was competitive early, holding a lead at halftime before faltering late in the game.
What's Next

Looking ahead, St. Thomas aims to build on this season's experiences as they transition into the following year, possibly focusing on improving their offensive consistency and overall performance in high-pressure moments. The coaching staff will likely evaluate strategies and recruiting to strengthen the roster for future competitions.

Bottom Line

Despite the disappointing end to the season, the Tommies have established a solid foundation with consistent winning records and a historic playoff appearance in their first year of eligibility. This momentum could fuel future success as they continue to develop their program.