Cole Swider, a former Syracuse University standout, is set to suit up for Boeheim's Army in the 2026 The Basketball Tournament, the annual single‑elimination competition that has become a summer staple for former college stars.
Swider’s college career spanned two programs. He began at Villanova before transferring to Syracuse, where he posted averages of 13.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists and a steal per game over a single season with the Orange.
After going undrafted in 2022, he carved out a professional path that includes stints in the NBA G League and a three‑year run in Turkey with Anadolu Efes, where he appeared in 30 games during the 2025‑26 season, contributing 5.3 points and 1.1 rebounds per contest.
A Roster Built on Syracuse Roots
He will be joined on Boeheim's Army by five other Syracuse alumni — Buddy Boeheim, Eric Devendorf, Jimmy Boeheim, Elijah Hughes and Wes Johnson — forming a six‑player core that blends veteran experience with fresh talent.
The 2026 edition of the tournament introduces a 14‑team format and a $2 million grand prize, raising the stakes for each matchup.
Opening‑round games are slated for July 21 in South Orange, New Jersey, and July 23 in Syracuse, New York, with a possible third contest on July 24. All games are scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. Eastern and are expected to be televised on either FS1 or FS2.
With the new structure and a high‑profile roster, Boeheim's Army aims to extend its recent run of success, and Swider’s presence adds a new dimension to the team’s offensive versatility.