Idaho State Men's Basketball is undergoing a major roster rebuild for the 2026-27 season, with six new additions announced by Head Coach Ryan Looney. A significant turnover sees 12 of 15 players departing, and the team retains only three players from last season. The Bengals aim to improve their defensive identity with new talent, focusing on a blend of transfer portal additions and high school recruits. This roster renovation emphasizes physicality, versatility, and experience, while the incoming six-player class marks the beginning of this transformation.

By the Numbers
  • 12 out of 15 players left after the 2025-26 season.
  • Idaho State returns only 1.7% of its scoring, 1.6% of its rebounding, and 1.3% of its assists from last season.
State of Play
  • The Bengals now have 11 players on their roster for the 2026-27 season, including returning players.
  • Recent recruiting efforts have prioritized athleticism and defensive capabilities, bringing in six new players with diverse backgrounds.
What's Next

Idaho State will continue to build its roster leading up to the 2026-27 season, with ongoing evaluations in the transfer portal and high school recruiting. The effectiveness of the new roster composition will showcase their development in the coming months.

Bottom Line

This significant roster overhaul is crucial for Idaho State as it seeks to bounce back from last season's challenges. The emphasis on a renewed defensive identity and physical play could reshape the program for future success.