American opens the 2026-27 season with nearly its entire roster and coaching staff back, building on last year’s 16-16 finish. Led by returning standouts Madden Collins and Greg Jones, the Eagles are aiming to turn experience, returning players and added depth into a Patriot League title run.

By the Numbers
  • American went 16-16 last season.
  • The Eagles received 9 of 9 first-place votes in the Patriot League preseason poll.
  • Collins averaged 13.4 points per game and shot 50.8% from the field.
  • Jones averaged 12.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.
  • American went 1-5 in games decided by one possession.
Yes, But

Continuity raises expectations, but last season’s struggles in close games show where the Eagles need to improve. Several players who could add valuable depth are still returning from injuries, and Matt Mayock may miss the season opener.

State of Play
  • Collins and Jones lead a roster that returns nearly all of last season’s production.
  • Healthy returners Eric Michaels and, when available, Carson McDonald and Kamran Prince could strengthen the frontcourt and rotation.
  • Coach Duane Simpkins and his entire staff return for a fourth season together.
  • The schedule includes five guarantee games, the Capital Thanksgiving Classic at Bender Arena and a Dec. 2 trip to Maryland.
What’s Next

American will use its nonconference schedule to test its returning group before Patriot League play. The team’s progress in close games—and the availability of recovering players—could help determine how far its depth carries it.

Bottom Line

The Eagles have the continuity and preseason respect of a contender; converting that promise into a championship will depend on finishing tight games and getting meaningful contributions beyond their top returners.