Main Story

UAlbany opens a new chapter Monday under first-year head coach Kelly Morrone, with 12 newcomers among 14 players. After a 19-win season and MAAC Coach of the Year honors at Merrimack, Morrone is building the Great Danes around team chemistry, a healthy locker room and a competitive culture. UAlbany opens at Northeastern before its first home game against Manhattan.

By the Numbers
  • 14 players; 12 are new to UAlbany.
  • Morrone led Merrimack to 19 wins in 2025-26.
  • UAlbany was picked seventh among 9 America East teams.
  • The nonconference schedule includes 17 games.
Yes, But

The roster overhaul brings energy and potential, but chemistry and a clear team identity will take time to develop. UAlbany’s seventh-place preseason pick reflects the uncertainty around a largely new group, while Morrone is emphasizing steady program-building over immediate results.

State of Play
  • The Great Danes begin on the road at Northeastern, then host Manhattan on Nov. 5.
  • Conference play starts Dec. 31 at UMass Lowell.
  • Binghamton is the preseason favorite; reigning champion Vermont is another key conference test.
What’s Next

UAlbany’s early games will give the new roster a chance to establish its chemistry before a demanding schedule that includes South Carolina, Ole Miss and Rutgers. The team will then enter America East play aiming to outperform its seventh-place preseason ranking.

Bottom Line

Morrone inherits a near-new team, so UAlbany’s first measure of progress may be how quickly it builds connection and consistency—not its preseason position. The program’s championship ambitions depend on turning that foundation into results.