The University of California San Diego men’s basketball team launches its 2026-27 campaign Monday, November 2, hosting Whittier College Poets in an exhibition game at LionTree Arena in La Jolla, California. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m., with live coverage via ESPN+ and radio broadcast on 97.3 The Fan San Diego. Fans can follow live statistics on UCSDtritons.com.
Last season, the Tritons posted 23 wins under first-year head coach Clint Allard, marking their third consecutive 20-win season. This campaign represents UC San Diego’s final year competing in The Big West Conference before the program transitions to the West Coast Conference in July 2027. The Tritons have enjoyed strong home success, compiling a 37-9 record at LionTree Arena over the past three seasons.
Coach Allard introduced seven newcomers for the season, comprising six transfers and one freshman. Notably, fifth-year guard Treysen Eaglestaff transferred from West Virginia and made an immediate impact, scoring 29 points with five three-pointers and seven rebounds in an exhibition against USC. Other additions include Rahmir Barno (Florida Gulf Coast), Kayde Dotson (Loyola Chicago), Jordan Johnson (Calhoun Community College), Olavi Suutela (Oregon State), Camp Wagner (Indiana State), and freshman Jake Holmes from Christchurch, New Zealand.
Senior guard Leo Beath, named preseason All-Big West, returns after leading the team last season with a 12.2 points per game average. According to the preseason coaches’ poll, UC San Diego is projected to finish second in the conference. Coach Allard praised his staff’s recruiting efforts, stating, “Our coaching staff did an outstanding job identifying and recruiting this group. They are exceptional competitors, high-character people, and we are excited to welcome them to our program.”
The Tritons face a demanding non-conference schedule with home games against Fresno State, Texas Southern, LMU, and participation in the Acrisure Series in Palm Desert, where they will play Seattle U and either Loyola Chicago or San José State. Road tests include Utah State, St. Thomas, and San José State.
Additionally, notable former UC San Diego point guard Hayden Gray signed with the NBA’s Boston Celtics following a standout collegiate career highlighted by being named the 2025 Big West Defensive Player of the Year and the program’s first NBA player.
CSB Take
UC San Diego enters its final Big West season fortified with new transfers and veterans like Leo Beath, showing promising continuity under head coach Clint Allard. The challenging schedule ahead will test the Tritons’ roster depth and resilience before their move to the West Coast Conference. This season is pivotal for maintaining momentum and establishing the team’s identity in anticipation of the transition.
Source: Original report
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