By Eric Coburn ’18 and Kelley McLellan ‘17
Sports Editors
Senior Riley Calzonetti is a member of the Merrimack College Men’s Basketball team. This Neptune City, N.J. native is studying International Business. Calzonetti has had a strong career as a forward, who appeared in seven games his freshman year. He continued to earn playing time, especially in his junior year, leading the team with a 100% free throw percentage. The Beacon sat down with Calzonetti to get to know him a little more off the court.
How did you get involved in basketball?
My dad is a college basketball coach so I have been around the game my whole life. I’ve learned so much from him and the staffs he has been on.
Do you have any good stories about playing basketball against your older brother growing up?
We would go to the park and play super physical. We were both really stubborn and did not like losing. There were both a couple of bloody noses.
How did you wind up choosing Merrimack?
I was originally going to another school. The coach left in May of my senior year of high school. Then I visited Merrimack and I really liked the school so I came here.
How would you describe your basketball game?
I’m not going to be a guy that drops 30 points in a game. I’m going to do the little things others don’t want to do. I’ll take a charge, box out, rebound and always play hard.
What is the most important thing you have taken away from basketball?
Basketball develops you as a person and gives you a lot of important characteristics. Time management, being on time, and working hard every day are all things basketball teaches you that apply to the real world.
What does it mean to be a senior and looked up to as a leader?
It has been a growing process. You take on more responsibility as you get older and teaching the younger guys accountability as well as helping the freshman adjust to college basketball.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to hang out with friends and just have a good time. I also watch a lot of movies with my favorite having to be Shawshank Redemption.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I was a champion tennis player in high school.
If you were trapped on an island and could only have three things what would it be?
My friends and family, my dog who is a Saint Bernard, and some beer.
If you could describe yourself to a complete stranger in one word what would it be?
Easygoing. I feel like I get along with everybody.
What do you want to accomplish before you graduate?
I want to go to the NCAA tournament and after school I want be a college basketball coach.
