In just his third season at the helm, Mike Green has once again guided Salem Community College into the national spotlight. The program is heading back to the NJCAA Division III Men’s Basketball Championship for the second consecutive year, continuing what has quickly become one of the most impressive runs in school history.
Last season, Salem finished with an outstanding 26–8 overall record (13–5 in conference), capturing the school’s first-ever North Atlantic District B Championship. Green’s leadership did not go unnoticed, as he was also named Region 19 Coach of the Year. Although Salem’s national tournament run ended with a hard-fought loss to Mohawk Valley Community College, the team still finished the year ranked #5 in the nation, marking a historic milestone for the program.
Heading into this season, expectations remained high despite the departure of several key contributors. Coach Green and his staff responded with an aggressive summer recruiting effort, bringing in a talented group of first-year players ready to make an immediate impact. Among the standouts were freshmen Jarrell Little and Nasseem Wright, who quickly became key pieces in Salem’s success.
The results spoke for themselves. Salem delivered another dominant season, finishing 30–2 overall (16–1 in conference) while remaining undefeated on their home court. Their run nearly included another district title, but Montgomery County Community College managed to edge Salem in the North Atlantic District B Championship by just three points.
Despite the narrow loss, Salem’s body of work earned them an at-large bid into the national tournament and the #4 overall seed. Coach Green also added another accolade to his résumé, taking home GSAC Coach of the Year honors for the season.
Now, all eyes turn to Herkimer, New York, where Salem will open tournament play on March 12 at 4:00 PM ET. With another opportunity at a national championship ahead, Coach Green remains focused and confident in his team.
When asked about the upcoming challenge, his message was short and clear:
“WE STILL HUNTING!!!”
