Robert Morris Basketball: A Storied Program with a Rich History and Bright Future

Robert Morris University (RMU), located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, has built a reputation as a small but competitive program in the world of college basketball. Over the years, the men's basketball team has established itself as a consistent force within the Northeast Conference (NEC), achieving a balance of success, growth, and strong community support. The university’s basketball program is defined by its hardworking ethos, championship pedigree, and the commitment to developing both athletes and young men. This article takes an in-depth look at Robert Morris basketball, exploring its history, key moments, influential figures, and the future prospects of the program.

The Early Years of Robert Morris Basketball

Robert Morris University’s basketball program has evolved significantly since its inception. The university, founded in 1921, first began competing in basketball in the early decades of its existence. Initially, Robert Morris was a small college with limited resources and support for athletics, but the school’s basketball program steadily grew in stature over the years.

Robert Morris started out as an independent institution, competing against various regional opponents in a mix of competitive divisions. Early in the program's history, the school did not have the same level of visibility and resources as major basketball programs, but that didn't prevent it from establishing a foundation of growth. By the time the 1970s rolled around, Robert Morris basketball had developed a local following and made a name for itself in Pittsburgh’s college basketball scene.

The Rise to Prominence in the NEC

In 1986, Robert Morris made a significant leap by joining the Northeast Conference (NEC), a move that would set the stage for the program’s future success. The NEC is one of the most competitive mid-major conferences in the NCAA, and for RMU, joining the league provided the basketball program with an opportunity to compete against teams with similar athletic profiles, while also gaining national exposure.

Under the leadership of coach Jarod West, Robert Morris began to experience increased success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. During this time, the Colonials began to regularly compete in the upper half of the NEC standings, establishing themselves as a program capable of challenging for conference titles.

In 1992, Robert Morris took a significant step forward with its first NEC Championship, marking the beginning of the team's rise as a perennial contender in the league. The 1992 title was a landmark victory for the program, giving the team its first NCAA Tournament berth. Although they were not able to make a deep run in the tournament that year, the appearance was important for establishing Robert Morris as a serious contender in college basketball.

The Tony Rocco Era: Championship Success and National Recognition

The early 2000s brought about a period of transformation for Robert Morris basketball under the leadership of head coach Mike Rice, and later under the steady hand of Coach Andrew Toole. The early years of the 21st century marked the team's emergence as one of the top programs in the NEC, consistently making strong showings in the conference tournament and earning regular NCAA Tournament berths.

Perhaps the most significant chapter in Robert Morris basketball’s history was written in the 2010s, with the arrival of coach Andy Toole, who would become synonymous with the program’s most successful years. Toole was hired in 2010, and his coaching style immediately made an impact on the team. He brought a more intense and disciplined approach to RMU’s basketball program, which translated to immediate success.

The pinnacle of Toole’s tenure came in 2015 when Robert Morris captured its fifth NEC Championship under his guidance, defeating Saint Francis (PA) in a dramatic, hard-fought game. The victory earned RMU an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, where they faced the Duke Blue Devils in one of the most prestigious basketball events in the country. Though RMU was ultimately defeated by the powerhouse program, the appearance marked an exciting moment in the program’s history.

Notable Players and Key Figures

Throughout its history, Robert Morris basketball has had numerous standout players who helped shape the program’s success. Several of these players have gone on to play professional basketball, further solidifying the program’s reputation as a stepping stone to greater opportunities in the sport.

One of the most notable figures in Robert Morris basketball history is Karon Abraham, who played for the Colonials from 2008 to 2012. Abraham left an indelible mark on the program with his scoring ability and leadership, helping lead RMU to multiple NEC Tournament appearances. He was a key player in their championship runs and is regarded as one of the best guards to ever play for Robert Morris.

Another important figure is Velton Jones, who played for Robert Morris from 2008 to 2012 and had a long-lasting impact on the team’s success during his time. Jones was known for his defensive abilities and his ability to contribute offensively when the team needed him most. His leadership on the court helped set a high standard for future generations of Robert Morris players.

In addition to the individual performances of these players, coaches such as Andy Toole and Mike Rice deserve significant recognition for their roles in establishing Robert Morris as a prominent program. Toole’s defensive-minded coaching style and ability to develop players has made him a mainstay in the RMU community, with his success at RMU inspiring confidence in the future of the program.

The Robert Morris Basketball Culture

One of the defining characteristics of Robert Morris basketball is the sense of community and pride that surrounds the team. The fans at Robert Morris are known for their passionate support of the Colonials, filling the Charles L. Sewall Center for home games and generating an electric atmosphere for RMU basketball.

The program has cultivated a reputation for playing an aggressive, defensive-oriented style of basketball, with emphasis placed on discipline, hard work, and attention to detail. Over the years, the Colonials have developed a gritty, blue-collar mentality that embodies the values of Robert Morris University itself. Players are expected to work tirelessly, not just on their skills but also in understanding their roles on the team and the importance of teamwork.

This team-first mentality has been key to RMU’s success over the years. Instead of relying on one or two superstars, Robert Morris basketball has developed a system that allows for balanced scoring, unselfish ball movement, and tenacious defense. This approach has allowed the Colonials to remain competitive year after year, even when facing more resource-rich programs.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

In recent years, Robert Morris basketball has faced some challenges. The university’s transition to the Horizon League in 2020 was a significant move for the athletics department, opening up new opportunities for the basketball program to compete at a higher level. However, the transition has also meant that Robert Morris faces stiffer competition in the Horizon League, which has made achieving conference titles more difficult.

Despite these challenges, the future of Robert Morris basketball remains promising. The program has shown the ability to compete with some of the best teams in the nation, and with the resources available in the Horizon League, there is a strong belief that the Colonials will continue to be a force in college basketball.

Coach Andy Toole remains at the helm of the program, and his commitment to recruiting talented players who fit into the team’s system bodes well for the program’s future. The Colonials continue to recruit both local and national talent, with an emphasis on developing well-rounded players who can contribute on both ends of the floor.

Conclusion: Robert Morris Basketball’s Legacy and Potential

Robert Morris basketball has had a significant impact on the college basketball landscape, especially within the Northeast Conference. From humble beginnings to recent national appearances, the program’s history is rich with success, and its future remains bright. With dedicated players, passionate fans, and strong leadership, the Robert Morris Colonials will continue to be a force in college basketball for years to come.

The team’s history of overcoming adversity, fighting for every win, and representing the university with pride has earned them a respected place in NCAA basketball. As the program continues to grow and evolve, there is no doubt that Robert Morris basketball will remain an integral part of the collegiate basketball scene. Whether they are competing in the Horizon League or beyond, the spirit of Robert Morris basketball will continue to inspire and shape the future of the sport.