2026 ECAC Men’s Basketball Awards Announced
DANBURY, Conn. – The Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) recently revealed its 2026 Division I Men’s Basketball All-ECAC Teams and major award winners.
St. John’s University forward Zuby Ejiofor took home the Player of the Year award. Hofstra’s Preston Edmead was recognized as Rookie of the Year, while Seton Hall’s Shaheen Holloway earned the accolade for Coach of the Year.
All-ECAC First Team
- Zuby Ejiofor – St. John’s University, Senior Forward
- Gavin Doty – Siena College, Sophomore Guard
- Cruz Davis – Hofstra University, Junior Guard
- Bryce Harris – Howard University, Graduate Guard
- Darin Smith, Jr. – Central Connecticut University, Sophomore Forward
All-ECAC Second Team
- Nasir Whitlock – Lehigh University, Junior Guard
- Erik Pratt – Stony Brook University, Graduate Guard
- Austin Benigni – Navy, Senior Guard
- Nick Townsend – Yale University, Senior Forward
- Bryce Hopkins – St. John’s University, Graduate Forward/Guard
The ECAC, established over 85 years ago, comprises about 200 member schools participating in NCAA sports across all divisions. It focuses on enhancing the student-athlete experience and hosts a diverse range of championships.
In recent years, NCAA basketball has gained remarkable attention, especially during March Madness. This year, viewership has risen, with an estimated 15 million fans tuning in for the tournament’s first weekend alone. Experts note that the excitement around college basketball continues to grow, as more students engage in these sports, shaping future athletic talent.
As social media buzzes with user reactions and memes surrounding the tournament, the passion for college basketball clearly resonates within fan communities.
For further details on the ECAC, you can visit ECAC Sports.
Stay tuned for more highlights from the tournament!

