Buffalo's Veteran Basketball Stat Crew Keeps Score for Decades

Behind the scenes with the 'world famous' stat keepers powering college hoops in Buffalo

Mar. 19, 2026 at 12:23am

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For more than 100 years combined, a trio of veteran statisticians have been the unsung heroes behind the box scores at college basketball games in Buffalo, New York. Known as the 'world famous stat crew,' Sam Hunt, Dwayne Dewyea, and Kevin Shelley have worked together for decades, providing the accurate, real-time data that coaches, broadcasters, and fans rely on during games - even at the highest levels of March Madness.

Why it matters

While the players and coaches take center stage, the stat crew plays a crucial but often overlooked role in bringing the game to life. Their work ensures the integrity of the data that shapes strategy, analysis, and the fan experience. As one of the longest-tenured crews in the country, their story highlights the dedication and expertise required to power the world of college basketball.

The details

The three-person stat crew - made up of 'spotter' Sam Hunt, data inputter Dwayne Dewyea, and colleague Kevin Shelley - has worked together for over 30 years, first at Canisius University and later at other schools like Daemen University. Their responsibilities include calling out every play in real-time, inputting the data, and compiling the comprehensive box scores seen by millions. The crew's experience and chemistry are essential, as even the smallest detail like an assist or turnover must be recorded accurately, especially during high-pressure events like the NCAA Tournament.

  • Sam Hunt has been the crew's 'spotter' for 37 years.
  • Dwayne Dewyea, known as the 'rookie,' has been on the job for 35 years.
  • The crew has worked the NCAA Tournament eight times since 2000.

The players

Sam Hunt

The 'spotter' of the crew, responsible for calling out every play in real-time.

Dwayne Dewyea

One of the data inputters on the crew, with 35 years of experience.

Kevin Shelley

The third member of the veteran stat crew, responsible for inputting stats.

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What they’re saying

“I'm kind of like the play-by-play guy. Whatever happens on the court, I say what happens, they input it into the system, and it all gets compiled into the box score you see at halftime and the end of the game.”

— Sam Hunt, Statistician

“I've always said March Madness is my Christmas. To be part of it when it comes here—it's pretty cool.”

— Dwayne Dewyea, Statistician

What’s next

The crew will continue to provide their expertise at upcoming college basketball games in Buffalo, including the NCAA Tournament when it returns to the city.

The takeaway

This story highlights the unsung heroes behind the scenes who ensure the integrity of college basketball data and statistics. The dedication and experience of Buffalo's veteran stat crew demonstrate how crucial their work is in powering the fan experience and shaping the strategic analysis of the game.