New Faces in the Raider Locker Room
Shippensburg University’s men’s basketball program has unveiled its 2026‑27 recruiting class, a trio of prospects that could reshape the Raiders’ frontcourt and backcourt.
Nicolás Acosta, a 6‑7 forward originally from Colombia, arrives from Union County College in New Jersey, where he posted a double‑double average of 20.4 points and 15.5 rebounds last season. He shot 55.7 % from the field and 42.9 % from three‑point range over 31 games, helping the club finish 22‑9.
Acosta’s collegiate journey began at Plainfield High School before he spent a year at Union County College, where he earned a reputation as a relentless rebounder and efficient scorer. His experience should give Shippensburg a immediate boost in the paint.
Joining him on the perimeter is Collin Bowles, a guard from Spotsylvania, Virginia, who transferred from Massaponax High School. Bowles earned four varsity letters and was recognized as a First‑Team All‑State guard, amassing 1,324 career points and 300 three‑pointers.
Bowles also collected multiple All‑Region and All‑District honors and is expected to add depth and shooting versatility to the Raiders’ lineup.
The third signee, forward Jonathan Jennings, comes from South Riding, Virginia, after a standout prep career at Fairfax Christian School. Jennings was a two‑time All‑Metro Private School Conference All‑Defensive selection and holds the school’s single‑season record with 54 blocked shots.
Beyond his defensive prowess, Jennings was a member of the National Honor Society and also lettered in football, underscoring a well‑rounded profile that aligns with the university’s academic standards.
All three recruits share a common thread: they previously competed together on the Virginia Premier AAU circuit, a connection that could foster chemistry early in their collegiate careers.
Coach Chris Fite expressed enthusiasm about the class, noting that the blend of size, skill and work ethic matches the program’s vision for sustained competitiveness.
The incoming class also reflects the university’s broader recruitment strategy, which emphasizes relationships with established institutions such as Union County College, Massaponax High School and Fairfax Christian School, as well as partnerships with organizations like Virginia Premier.
Shippensburg University, located in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, will integrate these players into a roster that aims to contend for conference titles and NCAA tournament berths in the coming seasons.
The recruits’ diverse geographic backgrounds — from the Andes region of Colombia to the Mid‑Atlantic corridors of Virginia — highlight the program’s expanding national footprint.