Ole Miss basketball coach Chris Beard is currently evaluating his squad during on‑court workouts, using the sessions to gauge chemistry and readiness for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign.
The foundation of the roster remains intact, with returning standouts Ilias Kamardine and Patton Pinkins set to anchor the team, while newcomers Roman Siulepa and Santiago Trouet have already joined via the transfer portal, and point guard Budd Clark, a transfer from Seton Hall, is already drawing praise.
Patience Amidst a Closed Portal
Beard notes that eight players departed the program after a 15‑20 season and three additional top contributors have exhausted their eligibility, leaving the Rebels with twelve scholarship spots filled and room for up to fifteen under the recent House versus NCAA settlement.
Although the transfer portal is officially closed, the coach points out that Ole Miss can still attract athletes who entered the portal but have yet to commit, as well as prospects from overseas or those who obtain a fresh portal window after a coaching change.
The staff is being thoughtful about the offensive and defensive concepts being introduced this summer, and Beard stresses a deliberate process that prioritizes getting the pieces right over rushing to fill every vacancy.