A Legacy of Excellence
Romeo Aquino, a Newburgh native who once dazzled as a standout player for the SUNY Orange men’s basketball program, is set to return to the campus in the 2026‑27 season as an assistant coach. His journey from a high‑school All‑Star in Washingtonville to a national award‑winning collegiate athlete has been marked by relentless improvement and defensive mastery.
During his sophomore year with the Colts, Aquino helped the team finish a perfect regular season at 31‑3, guiding them to the Final Four and earning NJCAA Division II Player of the Year. He was also recognized as a First‑Team All‑American, a Region XV Most Valuable Player and the MVP of the NJCAA All‑Star Game, underscoring his impact on the court.
A New Chapter at SUNY Orange
Aquino’s addition to the coaching staff comes after professional stints at Bluefield State University and Fayetteville State University, where he averaged double‑digit points and contributed significantly in rebounds, blocks and steals. His defensive instincts and work ethic have already drawn praise from head coach Tom Rickard, who highlighted the veteran’s ability to mentor younger players and reinforce the program’s defensive identity.
The move signals a strategic push by SUNY Orange to blend championship experience with fresh leadership. With Aquino’s deep roots in the region and his proven track record of elevating team performance, the Golden Knights hope to build on recent successes and contend for future conference titles.