Bucknell Basketball Welcomes New Talent for 2026-27
In Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Bucknell’s men’s basketball coach, John Griffin III, is excited about the new season. The roster for 2026-27 has seen significant changes, with several fresh faces joining the team.
This spring, Bucknell added seven new players, including four transfers and two international recruits. This aligns perfectly with the team’s goals, balancing international experience with a strong collegiate background.
New Additions
Here’s a quick look at the newcomers:
Ludvik Bergseng (6’11”, Norway): A talented forward, Ludvik has a strong family basketball background and has played at various national levels. He impressed in his recent season in Spain, averaging 9.1 points and 5.1 rebounds.
Rocco Lamuno (6’3″, Tennessee): A dynamic guard and the top scorer in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference last season, Rocco averaged 18.5 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability and leadership.
Kyle Marshall (6’4″, New York): This guard brings valuable experience from the Air Force Academy. Known for his athleticism, he has already shown he can lead from the front in critical games.
Ethan Marten-Coney (6’9″, Australia): Renowned for his toughness, Ethan’s background in Australian basketball reflects a competitive spirit. He has played at high levels in his home country, contributing to championship teams.
Luke Soden (6’4″, New Hampshire): After a strong start at Regis University, Luke is ready to bring his skills to Bucknell. His impressive shooting percentage last season highlights his scoring capabilities.
Luca Soroa Schaller (6’7″, Spain): An experienced player from Northeastern, Luca has impressive credentials from European competitions. His skills in ball-handling and passing are expected to strengthen the team’s guard depth.
Joe Youakim (6’0″, North Carolina): This freshman guard is known for his competitive spirit, having led his high school team to state semifinals and earning multiple awards throughout his career.
Coach Griffin expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “These newcomers bring a mix of talent and experience that fits our program’s identity. They have the skills and mindset to contribute right away.”
Statistics and Trends
Basketball at this level is increasingly competitive, with data showing significant growth in player transfers. According to the NCAA, the number of student-athletes transferring schools has increased by 30% in recent years. This trend highlights the importance of teams like Bucknell securing both seasoned players and rising stars.
Fan Reactions
Social media buzz from Bucknell fans is positive, with many eager to see how the new players will gel with returning team members. The anticipation for the upcoming season is palpable, and the community is rallying behind their team.
As the Bucknell basketball team prepares for 2026-27, their focus on building a versatile and resilient roster sets the stage for an exciting season ahead. Keep an eye on these new faces as they aim to make their mark on the court.
