The Massachusetts Collective

Creating the Next Generation of UMass Fans: Inside the Launch of the Commonwealth Legacy Foundation

Host Nathan Strauss sits down with Patrick MacWilliams from The Massachusetts Collective and the newly formed Commonwealth Legacy Foundation to discuss how the foundation is building the next generation of UMass fans. The conversation highlights tomorrow's debut event as UMass Basketball takes on Albany, where over 400 youth and family members from Hadley Elementary will attend the game courtesy of the foundation. The Commonwealth Legacy Foundation's mission is simple yet powerful: to build lasting connections between youth and youth organizations across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the flagship state university, the University of Massachusetts. Through the generosity of UMass alumni, local businesses, and supporters, the foundation provides youth groups with game tickets, access, and experiences at UMass athletic events — inspiring pride, community, and belonging while cultivating the next generation of UMass supporters and leaders. Hear how the foundation came together, what's next on the calendar, and how anyone who cares about UMass can play a role in building the next generation of UMass fans.

Record Breaker: Rahsool Diggins' Historic Week for the Minutemen

This week on Commonwealth Conversations, we're joined by Rahsool Diggins, the UMass Minutemen star guard who etched his name into the history books with a stunning 46-point performance at Rose Hill Gym—setting both a program single-game record and a Fordham facility record. In an unforgettable triple-overtime thriller, Diggins led the Minutemen to one of two big wins last week, earning him a trio of prestigious honors: A-10 Player of the Week, Lute Olson National Player of the Week, and Oscar Robertson National Player of the Week. Join us as we dive into the mindset behind his historic game, the grind of back-to-back victories, and how he's staying focused as the Minutemen look to carry their momentum forward.

Holidays and Hoops: Hall of Fame Classic Preview with Greg Procino

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we're joined by Greg Procino, Vice President of External Events & Partnerships at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Greg shares insights into his career, his work with the Hall of Fame, and his role in promoting the game of basketball. We also preview this Saturday's Hall of Fame Classic matchup between UMass and Arizona State at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA. (Get tickets here [https://www.massmutualcenter.com/events/detail/bbhofclassic2024]) Later, Patrick MacWilliams, Director of the Massachusetts Collective, stops by to recap the last few events of the year, including tonight's pregame at Amherst Public House ahead of the UMass-Northeastern game and the big Holiday Party and Estate Sale at Hannoush Jewelers in Hadley (Thursday-Saturday). Don't miss the Friday festivities from 4-7 PM featuring food, drinks, UMass Basketball player appearances, and incredible giveaways like a 2-carat lab-grown diamond! Tune in for an engaging discussion on basketball, community, and celebrating the holidays. Happy Holidays to all, and thank you for your support!

Zach Lewis: From UMass Hoops to ESPN and Beyond

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we catch up with former UMass guard Zach Lewis, who played for the Minutemen during the 2016-2017 season under Derek Kellogg. Zach reflects on his time at UMass, shares stories from his basketball journey, and discusses his transition to a career at ESPN as a researcher. We also dive into his recent work with UMass Athletics Radio and his continued connection to the program.

Building the Future: A Conversation with Drew St. Aubin

In this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we sit down with Drew St. Aubin, UMass's new Senior Executive Director of Development and Chief Development Officer. Learn about Drew's career journey, his vision for advancing UMass, and the pivotal role he plays in shaping the university's future through development and philanthropy. Tune in for an insightful discussion about leadership, community, and building a stronger UMass.