Coach Derek Kellogg ’95 isn’t wasting any time getting the
message out about the future of the UMass men’s basketball
program. Within weeks of returning to his alma mater as head coach this past May, Kellogg hit the road with a series of meet-and-greet receptions organized by the Alumni Association. Hundreds of alumni and men’s basketball fans have been energized and enthralled by the charismatic coach.

“We’ve got heart, we’ve got soul, we’ve got fire, and we’ve got passion,” proclaimed Coach Kellogg at a Springfield gathering. “We’re going to play a fun, exciting style, recruit at the highest level, and win basketball games!” These words were nothing short of music to the ears of UMass fans. Joseph DeMarco ’74 echoed the sentiments of many who had gathered to meet the coach. “As a season ticketholder and Alumni Association member, it feels good to have someone with a local connection and who feels about UMass the way we do.”

Congratulations and best wishes followed Coach Kellogg as he shook hands with all in attendance and thanked them for their support. “To get this program to be thought of in the top 25, what we really need is to have the Mullins Center sold out every game. We’ve got a great bunch of kids who are going to play their hearts out,” said Kellogg, “and I ask that you take that trip out to Amherst to support them.”

We’re behind you, Coach! GO UMASS!