Our Crimson Knights

Bryce Daley ‘18 Assumes Role as Head Coach; Aims to Bring Salisbury Back to Winning Ways

Three years after returning to the Hilltop as an assistant coach, Bryce Daley ‘18 now leads the Knights into battle in his first year as head coach of the varsity basketball team. Daley brings ample basketball knowledge—both as a player and coach—to a program with a rich history of success.

In his first year, the former Salisbury captain plans to instill a sense of pride in hard work and effort. “Control what you can control,” he has preached to his team. This focus on avoiding distractions from the unpredictable aspects of the game translates to their offensive approach as well.

Daley intends to employ a balanced offensive attack, relying on high-percentage shots and open looks at the rim. His roster is full of players with unique skillsets, but the common thread among them is their work ethic. “In order to get a basket, you’re really going to have to work for it,” he said.

Headlined by Jaden Schwenebraten ‘27, a guard from Scottsville, NY with excellent athleticism, the Knights have a deep team of committed players. Schwenebraten has the ability to shoot at a high percentage and drive downhill to the basket. Though young, Coach Daley is excited to see how the guard performs in his first year on the Hilltop.

Fellow newcomer Jermelle Cotton ‘26 brings “in the gym range” as a shooter—a phrase meaning he can drain shots from anywhere on the court—and will command the offense as the team’s lead point guard.

Sixth Form guard Jonah Gilliam ‘25 is one of the few returners on this year’s squad and aims to take on a larger role this season. He has been working on his jump shot throughout the offseason and has a deep passion for the game.

Fellow Sixth Former Hayden Barnes ‘25 returns to the team after taking last season off. Coach Daley is excited about the balance Barnes brings to both ends of the court, as well as his leadership skills.

Defensive Swiss army knife Grant Ramsey ‘25 is poised to be a key contributor this season, fueled by his relentless drive to be the best. Ramsey has shared with Coach Daley that he has no problem going an entire season without taking a shot if it means locking down some of the best players in New England. He embodies the culture the program aims to build in year one.

Other players looking to make an impact for the Knights include Thomas and Will Judge ‘25—two brothers who bring maturity and an advanced understanding of the game. Will, in particular, shoots the 3-ball at a high clip, giving Salisbury fans plenty to be excited about.

Nash Barillaro ‘25 returns to the squad full of grit, while Liam Gregory ‘26 adds great size to the team, standing around 6’7”. Daley believes Gregory has some “untapped potential” and could emerge as one of the most underrated pieces of the season.

Paul Shyposh ‘26 takes great pride in his defense—a perfect fit for this team—and is joined by fellow forward Will Duffy ‘26 to round out the team’s taller players.

Joey Saunders ‘25 and Pierce Baskin ‘26 complete the roster, displaying impressive athleticism and an intense work ethic in practices.

Coaching alongside Daley are Christon Gil and Kevin Huber—two excellent leaders with a history of winning. Huber plans to incorporate some of his baseball coaching methods, which have helped the Knights achieve great success during his tenure.

The 2024-2025 season is primed to be an exciting one for Salisbury as a new era begins.