Queens, NY - For Speedy Claxton, the 2025-26 season has been filled with unforgettable moments. On Friday night, another was added to the list - this time, on a baseball diamond.

At Citi Field, Claxton delivered the ceremonial first pitch before the New York Mets game against the Colorado Rockies, a recognition of Hofstra men's basketball's CAA championship season and NCAA Tournament appearance.

It was a different stage, but a familiar feeling.

After leading the Pride to one of the program's most successful seasons, Claxton once again found himself representing Hofstra in front of a large crowd - this time under the lights in Queens instead of on the hardwood.

The honor highlighted just how impactful the Pride's championship run has been, extending beyond college basketball and into the broader New York sports landscape.

For Claxton and Hofstra, it was another reminder: the Pride's success is resonating far beyond Hempstead.

Hofstra won 24 games during the 2025-26 season, including road victories over Pitt and Syracuse that drew national attention. The Pride closed the regular season on a four-game winning streak before capturing the CAA title with three wins in three days in March to earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament. The championship, a 75-69 victory over Monmouth, marked the program's second CAA title, joining the 2020 squad.