FGCU Men’s Basketball Aims for ASUN Title Breakthrough in 2025-26
The FGCU men’s basketball team is determined to break its ASUN title drought in the upcoming 2025-26 season. Under the leadership of head coach Pat Chambers, the Eagles aim to overcome challenges that have limited their success in recent years. Since their impressive Dunk City run in 2013, the expectation for the program has significantly changed, yet FGCU has only captured two ASUN Tournament titles in over a decade.
Recent Performance and Coaching Insights
Pat Chambers is entering his fourth year as head coach and holds a record of 50-48 during his tenure. Last season marked his best performance with the team, achieving a 19-15 overall record. Despite setbacks in previous ASUN tournaments, including a loss to Queens that dropped them out for the third consecutive year, Chambers remains optimistic.
“I’m very pleased with where this group is headed,” Chambers stated, acknowledging the 7 new players joining the team. He emphasized the need for these newcomers to quickly bond as a unit, similar to trends observed in football with many transfers.
Preseason Rankings and Expectations
FGCU has been ranked as the No. 1 team in the ASUN according to the KenPom preseason rankings, though they hold the 184th position in Division I overall. They narrowly edged out Eastern Kentucky, which holds the 189th rank.
- ASUN Preseason Media Poll: FGCU is predicted to finish fourth, behind Queens, North Alabama, and Eastern Kentucky.
- This is the first year since 2019 that FGCU did not secure a Preseason All-ASUN Selection.
Offensive Strategy and Key Players
This season, the Eagles plan to adjust their playing style to be more aggressive offensively. Key to this strategy will be point guard Rahmir Barno, who aims to boost the team’s tempo. Last season, FGCU ranked 290th in adjusted tempo among Division I teams, averaging 65.5 possessions per game.
“We’re gonna really try to push the tempo,” Chambers said, envisioning an engaging style of play for fans. Defensively, FGCU performed well, being one of the top teams in defensive efficiency within the ASUN.
| Player | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game |
|---|---|---|
| Rahmir Barno | 8.0 | 4.1 |
| Darren Williams | – | – |
| Jack Reddick | – | – |
| Tristan Guillouette | 2.4 | 2.0 |
Key Matches and Schedule
This season, FGCU faces a mix of nonconference opponents, including significant matchups against Illinois, FAU, and Chattanooga. The Eagles’ full schedule includes:
- Nov 3 — vs. New College of Florida
- Nov 7 — at No. 17 Illinois
- Jan 8 — vs. Austin Peay
- Feb 21 — vs. Central Arkansas
Returning veterans like Michael Duax and Rory Stewart are expected to play crucial roles in mentoring the younger players. Chambers believes that setting a strong foundation early on will be essential for building a successful season.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, FGCU hopes to make a significant leap forward in their pursuit of the ASUN title.
