Can the Hoyas Keep Climbing? Last season, Georgetown’s men’s basketball team gave fans something they hadn’t felt in years: hope. After years of struggle, the Hoyas surged to seventh place in the BIG EAST, boasting an 8-12 conference record and an overall 18-16 mark – their first winning season since 2019. But here’s where it gets interesting: can they sustain this momentum despite losing key players to the NBA and transfers?
The Hoyas’ offseason wasn’t just about losses. They showcased their potential in two exhibition tournaments. At FOX’s inaugural College Basketball Crown, they topped Washington State before falling to eventual champion Nebraska. Then, at Canada’s GLOBL JAM, they secured a second-place finish, narrowly losing to Japan’s national team.
And this is the part most people miss: GLOBL JAM revealed a silver lining. Junior guard Malik Mack emerged as a dynamic offensive force, proving he can adapt to any role the team needs. His 37-point outburst against Washington State, sans key players like Jayden Epps, was a testament to his versatility. Beyond scoring, Mack’s playmaking abilities make him a true floor general.
Mack isn’t alone. 7-foot-1 senior center Vince Iwuchukwu, a transfer from St. John’s, steps in to fill the void left by Thomas Sorber in the paint. Sophomore forward Caleb Williams, showcasing newfound rebounding prowess, takes over Micah Peavy’s defensive role. Redshirt sophomore Jayden Fort, along with transfer guards KJ Lewis and DeShawn Harris-Smith, add depth and experience to Coach Ed Cooley’s roster.
Cooley, aiming for a BIG EAST championship and NCAA tournament run, boldly declared this season’s goal: “the most hard-playing and connected team in America.” Interestingly, the 2025-26 roster features no undergraduate freshmen, with Cooley opting for transfer portal additions instead. This shift, he believes, brings a more seasoned and developed squad to the court.
But here’s the controversial take: While the Hoyas have talent, their shooting needs serious work. Last season, they ranked near the bottom in free-throw attempts and accuracy, suggesting they weren’t aggressive enough in attacking the rim. Their three-point shooting, though frequent, was equally underwhelming. If they can improve their shooting touch and free-throw discipline, they could become a real contender.
Adding to the excitement, the Hoyas will face George Washington University for the first time in over 40 years. This geographic rivalry promises a highly anticipated matchup, reigniting a dormant competition.
As the season tips off on November 3rd against Morgan State, followed by a BIG EAST opener against Marquette on December 17th, the Hoyas face a pivotal moment. Can they build on last year’s success, overcome their shooting woes, and prove they’re a force to be reckoned with? Only time will tell.
What do you think? Can the Hoyas keep rising, or will the loss of key players and shooting struggles hold them back? Let us know in the comments!
