Colorado School of Mines Bolsters 2026‑27 Men's Basketball Roster
Colorado School of Mines head coach Pryor Orser has revealed the newest members of the Oredigger men's basketball program for the upcoming 2026‑27 season. The announcement comes as the team looks to build on recent successes and maintain its reputation for competitive play and academic excellence.
The incoming class features five student‑athletes: guard Anthony Andrew from Rangeview High School in Aurora, Colorado; guard Holden Caltabiano of Woodlands Christian Academy in Montgomery, Texas; guard Wyatt Horner representing Redmond High School in Redmond, Oregon; forward Mariano Lopez Aarden out of De La Salle High School in Pleasant Hill, California; and forward Jack Ratigan, who arrives from Northwest Missouri State University.
A Cohesive Vision for the Future
Andrew is noted for his tenacious defense and relentless competitiveness, traits that Orser believes will tighten the team's backcourt. Caltabiano brings First Team All‑State honors from Texas, highlighting his scoring ability and leadership on the court.
Horner, the Oregon Player of the Year, adds another layer of defensive intensity while also earning First Team All‑State recognition. Lopez Aarden offers versatility, capable of playing multiple forward positions and emphasizing team‑first basketball.
Ratigan rounds out the group with a reputation for defensive acumen and strong academic performance, aligning with the program's emphasis on scholarship. Together, the recruits represent a blend of athletic promise and scholarly achievement that reflects the Mines mission.
Coach Orser emphasized that the class is not just about filling roster spots but about reinforcing a culture where excellence on the hardwood is matched by excellence in the classroom. The coaching staff expects these newcomers to contribute immediately while embracing the rigorous academic environment that defines Colorado School of Mines.
The addition of these athletes also strengthens the program's ties to regional high schools and junior colleges, creating a pipeline that supports both local talent and broader outreach. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the excitement among fans and alumni is palpable.