Trine University Claims Victory at Mauro Panaggio Invitational

Trine University Freshman, Elias Lewis, defends the rim as A.J. Thomas of Washington & Lee goes for the score. | 📷 Perry Williams IV/Nunlarger Films

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — High-flying dunks and clutch perimeter shooting defined the atmosphere at DME Academy this week as four NCAA Division III programs converged for the annual Mauro Panaggio Invitational. After two days of intense, wire-to-wire competition, Trine University emerged as the tournament champion.

The invitational featured a competitive field including Washington and Lee University, SUNY Brockport, Piedmont University, and Trine University. The event honored the legacy of Mauro Panaggio, a legendary coach whose impact on the basketball community continues to resonate through high-level matchups, such as those seen on the DME courts.

A Path to the Title

Trine University set the tone early in the tournament. On day one, the Thunder faced off against Washington and Lee in a physical contest. While the Generals kept the pace high, Trine’s balanced attack secured a 79-61 victory, punching their ticket to the championship game.

The final day proved to be a tighter affair. Facing a resilient Piedmont University squad, Trine relied on veteran composure to navigate a back-and-forth battle. The championship game was punctuated by spectacular dunks that energized the crowd and game-changing 3-pointers that shifted the momentum in the closing minutes. When the final buzzer sounded, Trine stood atop the podium with a 76-69 win.

Wire-to-Wire Intensity

The tournament was characterized by more than just the final scores. Throughout the two-day event, athletes from all four programs displayed the "above the rim" athleticism often associated with the highest levels of collegiate play.

• SUNY Brockport and Piedmont engaged in a defensive masterclass that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

• Washington and Lee demonstrated sharp execution, testing the depth of their opponents in every quarter.

• DME Academy provided a premier backdrop for the event, offering these D3 programs a professional-grade environment to showcase their talent.

As the teams head back to their respective conferences, the Mauro Panaggio Invitational remains a highlight of the mid-season calendar, proving once again that some of the most exciting basketball in the country is played right here in Daytona Beach.