The University of Indianapolis announced that ten new student-athletes will join the men's basketball program for the 2026‑27 season, marking a significant infusion of talent ahead of the team's first year playing in the newly renovated James T. Morris Arena.
Head coach Ben Howlett expressed enthusiasm about the group's versatility, noting that the newcomers bring a mix of size, skill sets, and a relentless work ethic that he believes will help the program represent the university with distinction.
A Mix of Experience and Fresh Faces
The incoming class includes eight transfers drawn from a variety of institutions, alongside two true freshmen who arrive directly from high school. Three of the transfers previously competed at the Division I level, adding a layer of seasoned competition to the squad.
Among the newcomers are Antoine Arnett, a 6‑foot‑7 forward who transferred from California University of Pennsylvania, and Jason Clarke Jr., a 6‑foot guard coming from Appalachian State University. Pat Curtin, a 6‑foot‑3 wing from Bucknell University, and Gus Etchison, a 5‑foot‑11 guard with stints at Idaho State, Western Michigan, and Marian University, round out the transfer contingent.
Notable Additions and Their Backgrounds
The roster also features Tarik Fadel Mula, a 6‑foot‑6 forward who previously played at Idaho State and Western Michigan, and Peyton Heiss, a 6‑foot‑4 guard transferring from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Precious Idiaru, a 6‑foot‑10 center with experience at Gannon University and UMKC, adds interior presence, while Landon Osswald, a 6‑foot‑5 non‑scholarship recruit from Hamilton Southeastern High School, brings local pedigree.
Marcus Pastorcic-Straun, a 6‑foot‑3 transfer from Colorado School of Mines, and Manasseh "MJ" Stackhouse, a 6‑foot‑7 forward from Cloud County Community College, complete the group of newcomers. Their diverse backgrounds span multiple states and even international experience, underscoring the global reach of the program.
Looking Ahead to the First Season in a New Home
With the new roster now in place, Coach Howlett and his staff are focused on integrating the players into a cohesive unit that can compete aggressively in the upcoming season. The team will rely on the blend of veteran transfer talent and promising freshmen to build chemistry early, aiming to make a strong impression in their debut campaign at James T. Morris Arena.