UAlbany men's basketball opens preseason embracing 'fight' to improve
UAlbany opens its 2026-27 season Nov. 2 at home against Rhode Island College.
University at Albany's men's basketball team kicked off preseason with a focus on a fight mentality to improve. Coaches donned t-shirts with images of famous boxers like Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali, along with a message to embrace their cage fighter mentality. Junior guard Zacharie Matulu cited past years of shortfalls as motivation to move beyond the doubts.
However, the team will be missing several players recovering from preseason injuries. Head coach Dwayne Killings emphasized the importance of keeping the team healthy, leveraging the strength and conditioning staff to minimize setbacks. At full strength, the team showcases promising talent, including new transfer Ollie Engen as the starting point guard.
Matulu highlighted the team's versatility and readiness to compete, while Killings aimed to build confidence after an underwhelming nonconference schedule last season.
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