Drew University men’s basketball launched a new era under first-year head coach Ryan Van Zelst, carrying momentum from last season’s conference championship into an 82-78 win over No. 24 College of New Jersey on Sunday to secure the Drew Tip-Off Tournament title at Baldwin Gym.
Van Zelst, the 17th head coach in the 96-year history of the program, brings extensive Division III experience to The Forest. His résumé includes head-coaching stints at Cabrini University and Penn State Abington — where he led the team to its best Division III season — along with seven years as associate head coach at Landmark rival University of Scranton. He most recently served as associate head coach at Division II Millersville University, helping guide the Marauders to a 19-12 record and a PSAC semifinal appearance in 2024-25.
On Sunday, his Rangers (2-0) showed poise late. Forward David Musial (‘26) knocked down two free throws with 2.2 seconds remaining after TCNJ (1-1) missed a pair that could have tied the game. Drew had led 80-70 with under two minutes left before the Lions stormed back with an eight-point burst.
Guard Devon Musial (‘26) started off his senior campaign in memorable fashion, pacing Drew with a career-high 15 points and seven rebounds, while guard Charlie Thornton (‘27) added 15 off the bench. Andre De Los Reyes (‘27) and Eli Yusavage (‘27) chipped in 13 apiece, and forward Ben Manns (‘28) scored 12.
Van Zelst’s arrival comes with an emphasis on defense, discipline and academic excellence, hallmarks of his previous stops. At Penn State Abington, his team set a scoring defense record and reached the United East championship game. At Cabrini, he guided the program through its final season while elevating team GPA. His coaching background also includes NCAA tournament runs at York College and Scranton, as well as national recognition on the NABC 30 Under 30 list.
With the season now in full swing, Drew aims to build on its opening-week momentum as Van Zelst settles into his new role, shaping a team hungry to defend its conference crown and return to the national stage.
Gillian Sampson is a graduate student in the Masters of Education Program.
