Summer Check‑In Series Begins June 25
The BIG EAST Conference announced a new Summer Check‑In series that will run throughout the month of June, spotlighting each of its men’s basketball programs as they prepare for the upcoming season. The initiative kicks off on June 25 with a feature on Butler University, where new head coach Ronald Nored shares his vision for the team.
Nored, a former NBA assistant and Butler alumnus, returns to the campus where he once played, bringing a defensive‑first mindset and a commitment to competitive play. In a recent interview he outlined how the program will blend disciplined defense with an up‑tempo offense, aiming to restore the Bulldogs to national relevance.
Building a Balanced Roster
Butler’s 2026‑27 roster combines two returning starters, guard Jalen Jackson and forward Drayton Jones, with ten fresh faces. The newcomers include guards Treyson Anderson and Samis Calderon, forward Jordan Ellerbee, and big man Eduardo Klafke, each bringing diverse skill sets and international experience.
The non‑conference schedule features high‑profile matchups against Lafayette, Boise State, Pittsburgh, Nebraska and North Carolina, providing the Bulldogs with a rigorous early‑season test. These games are designed to evaluate the team’s chemistry and defensive schemes before conference play begins.
Beyond the United States, Butler’s roster reflects a global outlook, with players hailing from five different countries across Europe, South America and Africa, underscoring the program’s expanding talent pipeline.
Fans can follow the series live on the BIG EAST website and social platforms, where each coach’s insights will be posted weekly. The series not only builds anticipation for the upcoming season but also highlights the conference’s commitment to storytelling and community engagement.