The San Diego State Aztecs entered the 2026‑27 basketball season with a sense of optimism. After a strong finish to the previous campaign, the team believed it could finally break into the Pac‑12 conversation, and the coaching staff had already begun shaping a roster that could compete at a higher level.
That optimism was abruptly tempered when senior guard Nick Anderson suffered a knee injury during preseason practice. Medical imaging confirmed a torn meniscus, and doctors have projected a full season out of action. The loss of Anderson, who averaged 14.2 points and 5.8 assists per game last year, leaves a void in the backcourt that the Aztecs must now address.
Enter Chance Gladden. The Boston University transfer brings a polished skill set and a reputation as a floor general. Coaches have praised his ability to control tempo and create scoring opportunities for teammates, positioning him as the likely offensive engine for the Aztecs.
Another name generating buzz is Latrell Davis. A redshirt sophomore who spent a year developing on the scout team, Davis has impressed in recent scrimmages with his athleticism and defensive intensity. Early indications suggest that the coaching staff is increasingly comfortable handing him larger minutes, a factor that could accelerate his rise.
Luka Skoric, a Croatian wing, offers a rare combination of size, shooting range and versatility. Analysts describe his ceiling as theoretical but valuable; his ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions could reshape the lineup, especially if the team leans on his shooting to offset Anderson’s absence.
Isaiah Sy, a transfer from Oregon State, adds a different dimension. Known for his high‑volume three‑point shooting, Sy also brings a vocal presence on defense, often directing teammates and helping to organize the press. His shooting identity could become a cornerstone of the Aztecs’ offensive scheme.
A new era of opportunity
The departure of Anderson forces the Aztecs to rely on a collective effort rather than a single star. Coach Brian Dutcher has emphasized that the team’s success will hinge on how quickly Gladden, Davis, Skoric and Sy can gel, and whether their individual strengths can compensate for the loss of Anderson’s all‑around production.
If the newcomers can step up, the Aztecs may not only fill the gap left by Anderson but also emerge stronger for the transition into the Pac‑12. The early season schedule will serve as a litmus test, and the way these players respond to the heightened competition will ultimately determine whether San Diego State can turn its preseason promise into a realistic postseason contender.