Marquette Basketball is at a crossroads. After a disappointing early exit in last year's NCAA Tournament, can Shaka Smart's squad rebound and reclaim their spot among the Big East elite? The 2025-26 season promises to be a fascinating experiment in roster reconstruction and player development.
Smart, seemingly immune to the allure of the transfer portal, has once again opted to build from within. This loyalty to his existing players is admirable, but with the departure of their top three scorers, questions loom large.
And this is the part most people miss: while the Golden Eagles lose significant firepower, they retain a solid core and welcome a highly touted freshman class.
Chase Ross, the lone returning double-digit scorer, steps into the spotlight as the team's undisputed leader. While not a household name, Ross has the potential to blossom into a Second-Team All-Big East caliber player. His efficiency and consistency, often overshadowed by departed stars, will be crucial to Marquette's success.
But here's where it gets controversial: can a team reliant on unproven talent and a senior taking on a drastically expanded role truly compete in the grueling Big East?
The answer may lie in the development of players like Damarius Owens, a versatile two-way threat from Rochester, New York. Owens, despite limited playing time last season, showed flashes of brilliance, hinting at a breakout year. His ability to score at all three levels and contribute defensively could be a game-changer.
Marquette's strength last season was their ball security, ranking 9th nationally in turnovers per game. With most of their rotation returning, this discipline should remain a cornerstone of their game. However, integrating the freshman class seamlessly will be key to maintaining this advantage.
The incoming class is headlined by Nigel James Jr., a potential starting point guard, and Sheek Pearson, a top-100 recruit. Michael Phillips II, reclassified from the 2026 class, adds further depth and talent.
Is this enough to propel Marquette back into the NCAA Tournament's second weekend? It's a bold prediction, but one that hinges on several factors: Ross's ability to shoulder the scoring load, Owens's emergence as a consistent contributor, and the freshmen's rapid adaptation to the college game.
What do you think? Can Marquette overcome their personnel losses and make a deep tournament run? Or will they struggle to find their footing in a competitive Big East? Let us know in the comments!
Marquette Basketball 2025-26: Key Details
- Head Coach: Shaka Smart (5th season at Marquette, 17th overall)
- 2024-25 Record: 23-11 (13-7 Big East)
- 2025 Postseason: Lost to New Mexico in the NCAA Tournament First Round
Notable Departures:
- Kam Jones (19.2 PPG, 5.9 APG, 4.5 RPG)
- David Joplin (14.2 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.3 APG)
- Stevie Mitchell (10.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.6 APG)
Notable Non-Conference Games:
- vs. Indiana (Nov. 9 - Chicago)
- vs. Maryland (Nov.15)
- vs. Dayton (Nov. 19)
- vs. Oklahoma (Nov. 28 - Chicago)
- at Wisconsin (Dec. 6)
- at Purdue (Dec. 13)
Projected Starting Lineup:
- PG: Nigel James Jr. (Fr.)
- SG: Chase Ross (Sr.)
- SF: Zaide Lowery (Jr.)
- PF: Royce Parham (So.)
- C: Ben Gold (Sr.)
Key Bench Players:
- Sean East II (Jr.) - Returning from ACL injury
- Damarius Owens (So.)
- Sheek Pearson (Fr.)
- Michael Phillips II (Fr.)
Player to Watch: Chase Ross - Can he make the leap to Big East stardom?
X-Factor: Damarius Owens - Will his versatility and two-way potential propel him into a breakout season?
Key Stat: Turnovers per game - Can Marquette maintain their ball security despite roster changes?
Projected Finish: 4th in the Big East, NCAA Tournament Round of 64 exit
