Old Dominion University’s men’s basketball program is set to welcome seven new transfers as it finalizes its 2026‑27 roster, a move that underscores the Monarchs’ aggressive push to rebuild after a modest recent showing.
A Player with Italian Roots
The final piece of the puzzle is Lucio Martini, a 7‑foot forward who spent the last two seasons in Italy’s Serie B with UP Andrea Costa Mola, where he honed a blend of size, skill and basketball IQ that caught the eye of ODU’s coaching staff.
Martini’s statistical trajectory over the past three seasons tells a story of steady growth: from 3.0 points and 2.5 rebounds in 2023‑24, to 5.2 points and 3.4 rebounds a year later, and finally 7.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game in the most recent campaign, all achieved in 28 appearances.
Coach Mike Jones described Martini as a ‘high‑basketball‑IQ’ prospect whose ‘strong hands, feet and game sense’ should translate quickly to the Colonial Athletic Association’s pace.
International Exposure
Beyond club play, Martini has represented the University of Bologna at the 2024 European Universities Games and spent time at the Virtus Bologna Youth Academy, where he helped guide the team to a playoff run, adding a layer of competitive pedigree that could benefit ODU’s culture.
What This Means for the Monarchs
The addition of Martini, alongside the other six transfers, gives the Monarchs a deeper frontcourt and a versatile lineup that can stretch the floor and protect the rim, positioning the team to compete more aggressively for a conference tournament berth.
With a blend of seasoned collegiate experience and fresh talent, ODU’s coaching staff believes the new roster can translate its depth into on‑court success when the season opens next fall.