Saint Anselm College has announced a leadership transition within its men’s basketball program, as Chris Santo ’15 will step down as head coach to pursue a new professional opportunity. Trey Witter, who has served as the program’s top assistant for the past two seasons, has been named the 12th head coach in program history.
“Coach Santo’s impact on Saint Anselm men’s basketball extends far beyond wins and championships,” said Director of Athletics Phil Rowe. “He has represented this institution with distinction, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the development of our student-athletes. As a proud alumnus, he returned to the Hilltop and elevated a program that means so much to him, leaving it stronger in every respect. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and the example he has set for our community. We wish Chris and his family every success as he begins this next chapter.”
In just two seasons at the helm of his alma mater, Santo compiled an impressive 40-23 (.635) overall record and a 23-15 (.605) mark in Northeast 10 Conference play. His tenure was highlighted by a championship season in 2025-26, when he guided the Hawks to both the NE10 Regular Season and Tournament titles—culminating in a 75-69 victory over Saint Michael’s College before a home crowd at Stoutenburgh Gymnasium.
“I’d like to thank the Saint Anselm community for trusting me to lead this program over the last two years,” said Coach Santo. “It was a dream come true for me to be the head coach here. Trey Witter is uniquely qualified to lead this program into its next chapter. I’m confident he will continue the sustained success of this program. I will forever be grateful for this place and this community.”
Under Santo’s leadership, Saint Anselm advanced to the NCAA Division II Tournament and earned two postseason victories, reaching the East Region Championship game for the first time since 2019.
Santo’s legacy is uniquely distinguished within the NE10. He is the only individual in conference history to be named Player of the Year (2015) and Coach of the Year (2026), and the only person to capture NE10 championships as a player, assistant coach, and head coach. His name now stands alongside program icons such as Keith Dickson and Bob Brown as one of only three coaches in program history to earn NE10 Coach of the Year honors.
More importantly, Santo’s tenure will be remembered for the culture he fostered—one defined by accountability, connection, and pride in representing Saint Anselm College.
Following Santo’s departure, Trey Witter assumes leadership of the program, bringing continuity, energy, and a deep understanding of the program’s values and direction.
“First and foremost, I want to congratulate Coach Santo and thank him for the profound impact he has had on me and on this program,” said Witter. “He has been an exceptional mentor and a true friend, and his leadership has set a standard that I will carry forward every day. I am incredibly grateful for everything he has poured into Saint Anselm Basketball.”
“We are pleased to name Trey Witter as the next head coach of our men’s basketball program,” added Rowe. “Coach Witter has played a vital role in recruiting, developing, and supporting the student-athletes who delivered a championship season and a deep NCAA tournament run. He understands the expectations of this program and the importance of aligning athletic excellence with the values of Saint Anselm College. His leadership ensures strong continuity and an exciting future for our program.”
Witter has been instrumental in the program’s recent success, contributing to a 40-win stretch over the past two seasons, including the Hawks’ 11th NE10 Championship. His work in player development has helped elevate student-athletes such as Will Davies (2025-26 NE10 Player of the Year), Edward Onyia (2025-26 NE10 Rookie of the Year), and Erik Oliver-Bush (2024-25 NE10 Rookie of the Year).
“I want to thank Coach Rowe and all of the administration at Saint Anselm for their belief in me,” said Witter. “I am grateful every day for the opportunity to be a part of this community. I will uphold the standards of our athletic department and its commitment to excellence. “
Before Saint Anselm, Witter spent four seasons at Trinity College (Conn.), where he contributed to one of the most successful stretches in program history, including a 30-2 season and a trip to the NCAA Division III Final Four in 2023-24. He also previously coached at Springfield College, his alma mater.
“I also want to thank the great mentors I have had, as well as the players I have coached, who have opened this door for me,” added Witter. “I believe in Saint Anselm College and our athletic department. I believe in the current members of our team, as well as the student-athletes that we will recruit. Let’s work.”
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING ABOUT COACH WITTER
“This is a tremendous hire for Saint Anselm College. Trey Witter will do an outstanding job leading the Hawks moving forward. Saint Anselm couldn’t have chosen a better person to be their next leader as the men’s basketball coach.”
James Cosgrove ’87, Trinity College men’s basketball head coach
