The Massachusetts Collective

Host Nathan Strauss sits down with Patrick MacWilliams from The Massachusetts Collective and the newly formed Commonwealth Legacy Foundation to discuss how the foundation is building the next generation of UMass fans . The conversation highlights tomorrow's debut event as UMass Basketball takes on Albany, where over 400 youth and family members from Hadley Elementary will attend the game courtesy...

This week on Commonwealth Conversations , we're joined by Rahsool Diggins , the UMass Minutemen star guard who etched his name into the history books with a stunning 46-point performance at Rose Hill Gym—setting both a program single-game record and a Fordham facility record. In an unforgettable triple-overtime thriller, Diggins led the Minutemen to one of two big wins last week, earning him...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we're joined by Greg Procino , Vice President of External Events & Partnerships at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Greg shares insights into his career, his work with the Hall of Fame, and his role in promoting the game of basketball. We also preview this Saturday's Hall of Fame Classic matchup between UMass and Arizona State at the MassMutual Cente...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we catch up with former UMass guard Zach Lewis , who played for the Minutemen during the 2016-2017 season under Derek Kellogg. Zach reflects on his time at UMass, shares stories from his basketball journey, and discusses his transition to a career at ESPN as a researcher. We also dive into his recent work with UMass Athletics Radio and his continued...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we sit down with Drew St. Aubin , UMass's new Senior Executive Director of Development and Chief Development Officer. Learn about Drew's career journey, his vision for advancing UMass, and the pivotal role he plays in shaping the university's future through development and philanthropy. Tune in for an insightful discussion about leadership, community...

Brad Davidson and Mike Corey , former UMass student broadcasters and now industry leaders, join Commonwealth Conversations to share stories from their time on campus during the rise of UMass Basketball. They also dive into their latest project, Lightning in a Bottle, a documentary capturing the unforgettable 1995-96 season. Relive the magic of a team that defined an era, as Brad and Mike reflect o...

On this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we dive into the excitement surrounding the Icons of the Game event, a historic men's college basketball doubleheader set for Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Nassau Coliseum. We sit down with 44 Group Executive Director Jason Tilton and Co-Director Gary Charles , who share the inspiration behind this event dedicated to honoring coaching legends who...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we connect with Dana Dingle , UMass Basketball's all-time leader in games played and a true program legend. Dana reflects on his memorable years with the Minutemen, sharing his enduring love for UMass and the profound impact it's had on his life. We also explore his pivotal role in youth basketball today, leading the nationally renowned New York Ligh...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we sit down with UMass basketball legend Stephane Lasme , the 2007 A10 Player of the Year. Join us as Stephane shares his inspiring journey from his early days in Gabon to becoming a standout player at UMass. He reflects on his college career, the challenges he faced, and the triumphs that defined his time in Amherst. We'll also dive into his profess...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Massachusetts' own Carl Pierre , the sharpshooter who finished his UMass career ranked #2 on the all-time three-point list. Join us as Carl reflects on his basketball journey, starting with his high school days in Massachusetts and leading to his standout career at UMass.

In this inspiring episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Massachusetts own Ryan Marcus , a recent graduate of UMass and former walk-on for the UMass basketball team. After a standout high school career as a two-year captain at Wakefield High School, Ryan brought his passion for basketball to the collegiate level, navigating the challenges and triumphs of being a walk-on for five y...

Welcome to this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, where we sit down with Mike Minyard , the newly appointed Senior Associate Athletics Director for Marketing, Sales, and Fan Experience at the University of Massachusetts. With over a decade of senior-level leadership in athletics, Mike has a wealth of experience in external operations, marketing, and fan engagement. Before joining UMass in Aug...

Kaily Godek from A10 Talk chatted with Momo LaClair , an incoming Senior Guard from Syracuse, NY. Momo spent three seasons at Drexel, with a 46% shooting percentage. Get a behind-the-scenes look as Momo shares her journey to UMass and her goals for the season.

Join us as we meet highly touted UMass freshman Nate Guerengomba . Hear about his journey to UMass, his early experiences on campus, and what fans can expect from him this season in the Atlantic 10.

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations , we sit down with UMass Minutemen power forward Daniel Hankins-Sanford , who is primed to contribute in a big way during his upcoming junior season. As he dedicates countless hours in the gym, Daniel shares his journey of resilience, growth, and determination. Don't miss this chance to get to know one of the rising stars of the Minutemen!

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with UMass basketball's newest star, Akil Watson . After a year at Arizona State, Akil has traded the desert heat for the passionate basketball culture of the Minutemen. Join us as he reflects on his transition to UMass, the lessons learned at ASU, and his goals for the upcoming season. We'll dive into his training regimen, the influence o...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, Nathan sits down with UMass legend Jason Germain to delve into the excitement surrounding the upcoming Massachusetts Collective Golf Invitational , taking place on Monday, September 16th, at the Crumpin Fox Club . Jason shares insights into the history of this prestigious event and what makes it so special. Joining the conversation is Mass Co Director...

Join Kaily Godek from A10 Talk as she sits down with Aleah Sorrentino , an incoming transfer to UMass. Discover Aleah's journey and what brings her to UMass in this episode of Commonwealth Conversations.

Catch up with Jaylen Curry as he takes us through his freshman year that landed him on the A10 All-Rookie Team. In this episode, Jaylen opens up about his summer training, the lessons he's learned, and what UMass fans can expect from him in the upcoming season. Don't miss this chance to hear directly from one of the most exciting young talents in college basketball about his journey, his growth, a...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, host Kaily Godek chats with UMass Women's Basketball guard Allie Palmieri . Tune in for an inside look at Allie's journey, her experiences on the team, and her insights on the game.

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with UMass Basketball's standout freshman, Jayden Ndjigue . Fresh off an impressive debut season, Jayden shares his thoughts on his on-court experiences, his personal growth, and what lies ahead for him during the offseason. Dive into Jayden's summer plans, including training, personal development, and his interests off the court. Don't mi...

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Rahsool Diggins , the veteran guard and Mass Co Athlete returning to UMass for his third year in maroon and white. Joining us as well is Jake Hayden , the Director of Basketball Operations, who shares exciting details about the team's upcoming community service initiatives for summer 2024. Tune in to hear about their plans, including...

We're launching our summer content with an exciting episode of Commonwealth Conversations featuring one of the newest Minutemen and Mass Co athlete, big-time transfer from Bryant University, Daniel Rivera . Get to know Daniel, hear about his journey to UMass, his plans for the summer, and what to expect from him this year. Stay tuned this summer for at least 10 episodes between now and Labor Day,...

Tune in for an exclusive episode featuring Coach Mike Leflar from UMass Women's Basketball, who joined us live from the WBB Final Four this past weekend. Coach LeFlar dives into the past season, shares insights into the offseason plans, and discusses his goals for the team's future. Additionally, learn about the exciting new WBB specific fund for the Mass Co.

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Tim Collins , a Massachusetts native who defied the odds as a walk-on for the UMass basketball team. Tim shares his experiences, from his time on the court to his transition to working for the department on the radio, covering games and sharing his insights with listeners. Join us as we learn more about Tim's journey at UMass and what...