Robert Morris Basketball: Best Team Stats and Achievements

Robert Morris University has had a rich history in NCAA Division I basketball, particularly during its years in the Northeast Conference (NEC) before transitioning to the Horizon League. While the program has undergone various changes over the years, there have been periods of great success. The team’s best stats and achievements often reflect the hard work, grit, and determination that define Robert Morris basketball.

This article will take an in-depth look at some of the best team stats and key achievements from Robert Morris basketball over the years, particularly focusing on their strongest statistical performances. From high-scoring games to dominating defensive statistics, Robert Morris has had its share of standout moments in the world of college basketball. Understanding the program’s best stats offers insight into its strengths, its competitive edge, and what makes the Colonials one of the more resilient mid-major teams in college basketball.

1. Robert Morris’ All-Time Best Team Stats: Scoring and Offense

Offense has been a defining feature of Robert Morris basketball, particularly during its most successful seasons. Over the years, the Colonials have developed an up-tempo style of play that has allowed them to score efficiently and effectively. Let’s look at some of the program’s best offensive statistics:

Highest Points per Game (PPG)

One of Robert Morris’ most impressive achievements came during their run in the 2014-2015 season, when they posted their highest points per game (PPG) average in recent years. The team averaged around 75 points per game, a strong total for a mid-major team. This offensive outburst was largely due to the scoring prowess of players like Rodney Pryor, who played a crucial role in the team’s success.

Robert Morris’ ability to put up points with such regularity during this period showcased their ability to generate offense in multiple ways. The team could stretch the floor with perimeter shooting, attack the basket in transition, and create opportunities in the halfcourt, which allowed them to compete at a high level against both mid-major and power-conference opponents.

Best Field Goal Percentage

Robert Morris also boasts a program record for best field goal percentage in a single season. During the 2015-2016 campaign, the Colonials shot 48.6% from the field, one of the best marks in the program’s history. This strong shooting percentage was indicative of the team’s efficiency on offense, particularly in the paint.

This performance demonstrated Robert Morris’ ability to not only get good looks but also finish around the rim, an important component of any successful offense. The high field goal percentage also spoke to the team’s strong ball movement, as they were able to create open shots with smart passing and movement off the ball.

Three-Point Shooting and Efficiency

Robert Morris has also been proficient from beyond the arc in certain seasons. The team’s ability to knock down three-pointers has been crucial in stretching opposing defenses and opening up lanes for other types of scoring. In particular, the 2013-2014 season stands out, as Robert Morris connected on 36.4% of its three-point attempts. The team’s ability to hit shots from long range helped them space the floor and create driving lanes for their perimeter players.

Notably, players like Karvel Anderson and Velton Jones were significant contributors to Robert Morris’ three-point shooting success, as their scoring ability from the outside helped the team establish offensive balance. This three-point proficiency was critical in some of their biggest wins during the NEC Tournament, and it often played a crucial role in their offensive strategy.

2. Defensive Strengths: Key Stats in Defense

While Robert Morris has often been known for its offensive output, the Colonials’ defense has been equally vital to their success. The team has had several standout defensive performances, and their ability to lock down opposing offenses has played a major role in their winning seasons. Let’s take a look at the program’s best defensive team stats:

Highest Team Defensive Rebounds per Game (DRB)

Robert Morris’ defense has frequently been among the best in its conference, particularly in terms of rebounding. During the 2019-2020 season, the Colonials ranked highly in the NCAA in defensive rebounds per game, pulling down over 27 defensive boards per contest. This emphasis on rebounding was crucial to their defensive efforts, as it limited second-chance opportunities for opposing teams and helped the Colonials transition into their fast-paced offense.

Strong defensive rebounding has been a hallmark of Robert Morris’ approach under coach Andy Toole. By clearing the glass, they were able to prevent opponents from getting second shots and were able to generate fast-break opportunities, which kept their offense efficient.

Best Steals per Game

Another statistical category where Robert Morris has excelled is in steals. The Colonials have regularly ranked among the top teams in their conference in steals, with several standout performances. In particular, the 2017-2018 season saw Robert Morris register 8.3 steals per game, which ranked in the top 50 in the NCAA.

Robert Morris’ defensive scheme emphasizes disrupting the passing lanes and creating havoc on the perimeter. Players like Matty McConnell and Jon Williams played pivotal roles in this, with their ability to pressure opposing ball handlers and force turnovers. This aggressive defense has allowed Robert Morris to get out in transition and take advantage of turnovers to fuel their fast-paced offense.

Lowest Opponent Points per Game (OPP PPG)

Defensively, Robert Morris has also been known for limiting opposing teams’ scoring. During the 2014-2015 season, the Colonials held opponents to just 65.2 points per game, a stat that helped them compete at a high level despite facing teams with superior talent in the NEC.

In this season, Robert Morris displayed a strong commitment to team defense, often forcing opponents into difficult shots and limiting easy baskets in the paint. Their defensive discipline allowed them to be competitive in high-pressure situations, particularly during the NEC Tournament, where they made a deep run.

3. Program Milestones and Achievements

Robert Morris’ best stats are not limited to individual games or seasons. The program’s overall history is filled with significant milestones that demonstrate the growth and success of the team. Some of these key achievements include:

NCAA Tournament Appearances

One of the most notable accomplishments for Robert Morris came in 2010, when they secured an NCAA Tournament berth by winning the NEC Tournament. The Colonials made it to the “Big Dance” by defeating top-seeded Saint Francis (PA) in the NEC Championship Game. While they were eliminated in the first round by Villanova, the appearance marked a high point for the program, showcasing their ability to compete on the national stage.

Additionally, Robert Morris has made several more NCAA Tournament appearances throughout its history, cementing its status as a perennial contender in the NEC. Each of these appearances has been a testament to the program’s consistency and ability to succeed when it matters most.

NEC Championships

Over the years, Robert Morris has captured several NEC Tournament titles, earning their place as one of the dominant programs in the conference. Their most recent NEC Championship came in 2015, when they defeated St. Francis Brooklyn to secure a berth in the NCAA Tournament.

The Colonials’ success in the NEC Tournament has been a defining characteristic of the program. It is a reflection of the team’s resilience and ability to perform in high-pressure games. Under coach Andy Toole, Robert Morris has developed a reputation for playing tough basketball in the postseason and has regularly positioned itself as one of the top teams in the NEC.

4. Robert Morris’ Strongest Statistical Seasons: A Deeper Look

While individual stats are impressive, it’s essential to understand how these statistical achievements contributed to Robert Morris’ success as a team. Their strongest seasons statistically often came during years when they made deep postseason runs, whether in the NCAA Tournament or the NIT.

For instance, during the 2010-2011 season, the Colonials averaged 74.6 points per game, ranking second in the NEC. Their balanced offense and strong defense helped them finish with a 23-12 record and an NCAA Tournament appearance. The combination of scoring, ball movement, and defense made them a formidable team, even against power-conference opponents.

Similarly, the 2013-2014 season saw Robert Morris put up one of their most impressive team stats in terms of offensive efficiency. With an average of 80 points per game, they became a high-scoring threat, especially in transition, and pushed the tempo of the game. Their fast-paced offense, coupled with solid defensive play, helped them secure a second-place finish in the NEC.

What Makes Robert Morris Basketball Stand Out

Robert Morris has had its fair share of standout team stats over the years, from their high-scoring seasons to their lockdown defensive performances. As a program that has consistently competed at a high level in the NEC, Robert Morris has proven time and again that it is a force to be reckoned with. Their ability to put together strong seasons, both offensively and defensively, has helped them secure numerous postseason berths and significant wins over the years.

While Robert Morris may not be a household name in college basketball, its statistical achievements and consistent success in the NEC show that it is a program that deserves recognition. The combination of offensive firepower, strong defense, and team success has made Robert Morris one of the more successful mid-major programs in the country. As they continue to grow in the Horizon League, the Colonials will likely look to build upon these statistical foundations and make an even greater impact on the national stage.