The Lady Caimans are the only team ever to secure eight consecutive CUNY-wide championships. The Men’s team claimed their third title in four years, second straight CUNY Conference Championship.
The Hostos Caimans faced the Jefferson Cannoneers at the NJCAA National Tournament.
In an electrifying season that showcased history-making performances, the nationally- ranked Hostos Community College Caimans Women’s and Men’s Basketball Teams made 2024–2025 a season to remember.
The No. 4 nationally-ranked Women’s Basketball Team captured the 2025 NJCAA Region XV/Northeast District Championship in dominant fashion, defeating Monroe-Bronx to secure their first Region XV title since 2020 and punching their ticket back to the NJCAA National Tournament in Rochester, Minnesota, for the first time since 2022.
“What more could be said about this incredible team of young women? Once again, they have made me and the entire College so proud,” said Hostos President, Dr. Daisy Cocco De Filippis. “They have shown incredible strength and resilience, but also so much talent! To have won so many tournaments against other top teams demonstrates the depth of their commitment to success, and the skill and vision of the coaches. And, of course, the men’s team have consistently shown their valor and won their share of trophies, too. Truly, there is some kind of special alchemy happening in our gym! Bravi!”
This year, the Lady Caimans made history as the only team ever to secure eight consecutive CUNY Conference Championships, a legacy of consistent excellence and grit. They closed out an outstanding 26-1 season, finishing #4 in the NJCAA DIII National Poll, and cemented their place among the nation’s best.
At the NJCAA National Tournament, the women’s team battled fiercely, pushing to double overtime before falling to Jefferson in a tough 79-73 matchup. In the consolation bracket, they fought to the final whistle in an overtime heartbreaker against Onondaga, who won 71-67. They close the season with undeniable pride and determination.
The women’s team fought hard to win over Monroe-Bronx, delivering a thrilling performance from start to finish.
The Hostos Women’s Basketball Team not only made history on the court this season but also earned individual recognition for their outstanding performances and leadership. Star player Daja White was named CUNYAC Player of the Year, Region XV Player of the Year, and earned Tournament Most Valuable Player honors, highlighting her pivotal role in the team’s success. Sandra Asamoah was named to the Region XV All-Tournament Team, showcasing her consistency and impact during high-stakes games. Jozai Vásquez was recognized for her character and integrity as a member of the CUNYAC Sportsmanship Team. Leading the team with vision and excellence, Head Coach Dwight Shaw earned dual honors as CUNYAC Co-Coach of the Year and Region 15 Coach of the Year, a testament to his leadership in guiding the Lady Caimans to one of their most successful seasons yet.
“I am so proud of them. The way they have represented Hostos this season has been amazing,” said Brent Wilson, the College’s Athletics Director. “I am looking forward to seeing them grow and transition to the four year level.”
(L-R) Brent Wilson and Daja White during NJCAA Region 15 Award Ceremony.
On the Men’s side, the Caimans also shined brightly! With a 26-5 record, they finished #14 in the NJCAA DIII National Poll and claimed their second straight CUNY Conference Championship, their third title in four years.
The Hostos Men’s Basketball Team capped off their remarkable season with a collection of well-deserved individual honors that highlight the depth of talent and leadership on the squad. Tyrese Conway led the charge, earning CUNYAC Player of the Year, Region XV Player of the Year, and First Team honors for his exceptional play throughout the season. Rising star Harry Bonilla was named CUNYAC Rookie of the Year, received First Team honors, and was recognized on the Region XV Second Team as well as the Region XV All-Tournament Team, underscoring his impact in his debut season. Justice Carrington earned Region XV Honorable Mention, contributing strong performances on both ends of the court. Meanwhile, Eric Erskine exemplified integrity and respect, earning spots on both the CUNYAC and Region XV Sportsmanship Teams.
At the helm, Head Coach Marquee Poole was honored as CUNYAC Coach of the Year, reflecting his leadership and the team’s continued success as a powerhouse program. Poole’s leadership has not only driven success on the court but also opened doors for student-athletes beyond Hostos.
“One of the most rewarding parts of the season has been watching our student-athletes earn opportunities at four-year colleges,” said Poole. “Their recruitment and preparation for life-changing decisions are a true reflection of the strength and impact of our program. Hostos Athletics continues to be nationally recognized as one of New York City’s premier programs.”
He continued, “Beyond our success on the court, our athletics family earned major honors this year. Dwight Shaw, head coach of our women’s basketball team, received both Regional and District Coach of the Year awards. It is all an incredible achievement and truly inspiring.”
The men’s team won their second straight CUNY Conference Championship.
From buzzer-beaters to overtime thrillers, both teams demonstrated what it means to be a Caiman: resilient, determined, and driven. The College community is proud of its student-athletes and coaches for their talent, dedication, and sportsmanship.
Tyrese Conway earned multiple accolades for his impressive performance throughout the season.
Hostos Community College is an educational agent for change that has been transforming and improving the quality of life in the South Bronx and neighboring communities for over half a century. Since 1968, Hostos has been a gateway to intellectual growth and socioeconomic mobility, as well as a point of departure for lifelong learning, success in professional careers, and transfer to advanced higher education programs.
Hostos offers 28 associate degree programs and one certificate program that facilitate secure transfer to The City University of New York’s (CUNY) four-year colleges or baccalaureate studies at other institutions. The institution is one of only six national winners of the U.S. Department of Education's inaugural Postsecondary Success Recognition Program for promoting equitable access, success, and positive post-college outcomes for underserved students and a two-time Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence finalist. The College has an award-winning Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Development that offers professional development courses and certificate-bearing workforce training programs. Hostos also boasts both men's and women's basketball teams, which have won multiple CUNY Athletic Conference and National Junior College Athletic Association championships, with the women's team making history in 2025 as the only team ever to secure eight consecutive titles in CUNY’s history.
The College is part of CUNY, the nation’s leading urban public university, which serves more than 500,000 students at 25 colleges.
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publicrelations@hostos.cuny.edu.