The Milwaukee Panthers saw their 2026 Horizon League campaign end abruptly in the first round, falling to Detroit Mercy after a season that finished at 12‑20 overall and 8‑12 in conference play.
Roster Shifts and New Faces
Sekou Kennoh was the team’s most consistent contributor, posting 13 points and nine rebounds, while Josh Dixon and Chandler Jackson each added 12 points, underscoring a balanced but injury‑plagued effort.
The aftermath of that loss triggered a wave of movement, as several key contributors entered the transfer portal, including Stevie Elam, who committed to Miami University, and Sekou Konneh, headed to the University of San Diego, while Josh Dixon chose Georgia Southern and Esyah Pippa‑White opted for Houston Christian University.
Among the newcomers, Braylon Walker arrived as a four‑year high school standout, averaging 14.9 points, 5.9 assists and 3.4 steals, while Tre Norman, a former top‑100 recruit, joined after three seasons at Marquette, bringing experience and pedigree to the backcourt.
Local product Aaron Womack, who earned first‑team All‑Metro Classic Conference honors, returns to the area after averaging 16.6 points per game, and Amare Hereford, a top senior in the state, brings a 37.5‑point high school output, bolstering the frontcourt.
Al Amadou, a transfer from Saint Joseph’s and the No. 119 prospect of the 2023 class, adds depth, while Jake Hansen, a Wauwatosa native who posted 18.4 points and 5.5 rebounds at Oklahoma, and Nate Malosa, the defensive standout named Tennessee Community College Defensive Player of the Year, round out the new cast.
Returning veterans Danilo Jovanovich, who averaged 12.4 points and 6.1 rebounds before an early injury, John Lovelace Jr., who overcame a preseason setback to retain eligibility, and Chandler Jackson, who will again contribute 9.7 points and 2.8 rebounds per game, provide continuity and leadership as the program looks to rebound.
Coach and staff have emphasized that the blend of fresh talent and seasoned returners aims to translate potential into results, with the Panthers eager to make a strong impact in the upcoming season.