PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – Niagara men's basketball forward Sam Iorio has been named to the roster for the Open Men's Basketball Team representing the United States for the 21^st Maccabiah, which will be held in Israel July 12-26.

"I am very fortunate to have been selected for the 2022 Maccabi games in Israel," said Iorio. "Having the opportunity to represent your country and compete against different international talent is a unique experience. It is also a great way to connect with many other Jewish athletes and I am looking forward to visiting and learning about all Israel has to offer. I can't wait to compete for my second gold medal!"

Iorio also competed on Team USA in the 2019 European Maccabiah Games, held in Budapest, Hungary. Team USA defeated Team Russia to take home the gold medal.

The Maccabiah is an Olympics-style competition and is a celebration of Jewish unity, culture, and heritage through world athletic competition. Nearly 80 countries worldwide will compete in the Maccabiah, with about 1,200 athletes from the United States competing.

As part of an Open Team, Iorio will also participate in Israel Connect, which is a week-long intensive experiential education and athletic training program. 

During the 2021-22 season with the Purple Eagles, Iorio averaged 8.4 points per game and a team-high 6.1 rebounds per game. He also added 25 blocks and 25 steals on the season. Iorio played in 30 games and started in 25.

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