Rollie Massimino was very disappointed. His dream of winning another national title Tuesday night had just been shattered.
But Massimino didn't hesitate when asked if he'll return next season at the age of 78 to coach Northwood University.
"Yes, I'll be back," Massimino said by phone after his Seahawks of West Palm Beach lost 63-46 to Oregon Tech in the NAIA Division II national title game in Branson, Mo.
Massimino, who coached Villanova to the NCAA title in 1985, had surgery just before the start of the season for lung cancer. Late last month, though, he was pronounced cancer free.
Massimino's players had dedicated the season to their coach. But the Seahawks struggled in the second half Tuesday, allowing Oregon Tech to break away from 19-19 tie.
"We just didn't shoot the ball in the second half; we were 1-of-19," said Massimino, 77. "But the guys played really hard... They were very upset (after the game). I'm upset. But it happens.
"We had a great season. I want to thank all my assistants for keeping (the program together) when I was sick, especially Dick Versace."
With Massimino missing practices leading up to the season due to his health, Versace, a former college and NBA coach, helped with the program for more than a month last fall. Massimino returned just before the start of the season, and led the Seahawks to a 34-4 mark in his sixth season at the helm.
He's determined to be back for a seventh.
