DePaul opens its 2026-27 men’s basketball season Monday against West Georgia at Wintrust Arena. The Blue Demons, led by third-year coach Chris Holtmann, bring back seven players and add nine newcomers after finishing 16-16 last season.

By the Numbers
  • 7 p.m. Monday tipoff; ESPN+ will carry the game.
  • DePaul returns 7 players and adds 9 newcomers, including 6 transfers.
  • Layden Blocker averaged 11.1 points last season and is DePaul’s leading returning scorer.
  • West Georgia went 15- win in 2025-26; returning guard Chas Lewless averaged 12.8 points in 10 games.
Yes, But

DePaul’s roster has substantial turnover, so nine newcomers will need to find their roles quickly. West Georgia is also seeking to build on a 15-win season, though the teams have never met.

What's Next

DePaul hosts USF on Thursday, Nov. 5, at 7:30 p.m. on truTV.

Bottom Line

Monday’s opener is an early test of how quickly DePaul’s returning core and new additions can come together under Holtmann.