More than 25 alumni came together to play competitive basketball on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, in the main gymnasium of the ARC in the Newman Vertical Campus as part of Baruch’s Athletic Department Annual Men’s Alumni Basketball Game. Two alumni teams played 40 fun-filled minutes.
As expected, the reunion rekindled old memories:
“It was lots of fun to see guys from the old days and to play basketball one more time,” said Tom Santino (’98), who currently serves as commissioner of the New York State Boxing Commission. “I felt like I was 20 again!”
“I really had a great time getting back on the court to play with so many of my old teammates—many still close friends,” said George Kunkel (’10). He added, “I also enjoyed having the opportunity to play alongside other guys who have worn the Baruch uniform.”
Afterward, the alumni cheered on the current men’s basketball team, as the Bearcats soundly defeated SUNY-Purchase, 80-68. The day’s festivities then moved to a postgame reception at nearby Artica Bar & Grill, where more than 40 alumni, family, and friends gathered over food and drinks to catch up further, sharing their favorite memories as Baruch students and athletes.
“Of the entire basketball season, the alumni game is one of my favorite events,” said Head Basketball Coach and Athletic Director Ray Rankis, who has been coaching Baruch men’s b-ball for 29 consecutive seasons. “I enjoyed catching up with so many of my former players and watching them play one more time.”
—John Neves
Follow Bearcats basketball at athletics.baruch.cuny.edu.