In his second season as head coach of George Mason University’s men’s basketball team, Tony Skinn is building something special in Fairfax County.
Coming off a successful 20-win season, Skinn spoke with Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill on the “Connect with County Leaders” podcast about his program’s growth, challenges and vision for the future.
A New Team Takes Shape
After his first season, Skinn faced the modern challenge of college basketball: rebuilding through the transfer portal.
With nine new players joining the program, Skinn has focused on maintaining the culture established in his first year while integrating fresh talent from across the country and internationally.
“We’ve got guys from all different type of stops, a lot of older guys, a lot more experienced guys,” Skinn explained. “I think we’ve got five guys that are now going into their fifth year. So, we’re a lot older, but I’m happy with this team.”
The Power of Patriot Pressure
At the heart of George Mason’s identity is what Skinn calls “Patriot Pressure,” a concept that goes beyond just defensive strategy.
It represents a complete philosophy that encompasses both the team’s style of play and the program’s connection with its fans.
“Patriot Pressure is not just the way we play and our style of defending,” Skinn emphasized. “Patriot Pressure is we’ve got 18 home games at EBA [Eagle Bank Arena]. The more pressure we could put on our opponents, you know, the louder that place can get. It makes it a lot tougher for our opponents.”
This season, with new personnel better suited to his vision, Skinn plans to fully implement the aggressive, up-tempo style that defines Patriot Pressure on the court.
The addition of players like K.D. Johnson, who brings SEC experience and defensive tenacity, will help the team “apply what the Patriot Pressure actually means.”
Navigating NIL and the Modern Game
The Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) era has transformed college basketball, creating new challenges for coaches and programs. Skinn takes a principled approach to recruiting in this new landscape.
“I have no tolerance if the first conversation is about NIL or if it’s about money,” Skinn stated firmly. “I immediately just kind of tune out, but in my mind, I already know the direction that I’m going.”
Building for Success
The Patriots enter the 2024-25 season with high expectations, having been ranked in the top 100 nationally during the offseason (and ranked in the top 60 for their transfer class) – the highest ranking since 2010-11. The team features key returners like Darius Maddox, one of the country’s top shooters, alongside impactful transfers who bring experience from high-level programs.
Their non-conference schedule reflects Skinn’s ambitious vision, including matchups against powerhouses Duke and Marquette. Rather than scheduling cautiously, Skinn has embraced the challenge of testing his team early.
“The one thing that I’m trying to make sure these guys don’t forget is, yeah, we’re playing Duke and Marquette, but we’ve got 11 other [non-conference] games to play.”
Home Court Advantage
Playing at EagleBank Arena, the Patriots compiled an impressive 14-3 home record last season, including an 8-0 mark in non-conference play. Tickets starting at $10 make the games accessible to the community, whose support Skinn views as crucial to the program’s success.
“You can’t win at a high level if you don’t protect the home floor,” said Skinn.
The ultimate goal this season is clear: winning the Atlantic 10 Conference championship – which returns to the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. March 12-16 – and reaching the NCAA Tournament.
With improved shooting, experienced leadership, and a connected team culture, Skinn believes the pieces are in place for a special season and are poised to build on last year’s success and compete for championships.
For fans looking to support the program, tickets are available at gomason.com, where they can be part of what could be a historic season for George Mason basketball.
Connect With County Leaders Podcast
The “Connect with County Leaders” podcast is a monthly opportunity to meet and connect with Fairfax County leaders, to learn about the latest county news and information, and hear more on specific programs and services in Fairfax County.
Listen or watch past episodes of “Connect with County Leaders” on SoundCloud, on YouTube and on Channel 16’s podcast on demand page. For other Fairfax County podcasts, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts, and for additional audio content, tune in to Fairfax County Government Radio at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/radio.
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