The Syracuse Orange men's basketball program is entering a pivotal phase as it prepares for the 2026‑27 campaign. With the small forward spot undergoing a thorough reconstruction, the coaching staff has assembled a diverse group of players who bring a mix of experience, skill sets, and potential.
A Flexible Approach to the Small Forward Role
At the forefront of this transformation is Gavin Doty, a transfer from Siena who is slated to start at small forward. Doty arrives with a proven track record, having averaged 18 points and 6.9 rebounds per game at Siena and even scoring 21 points against Duke in the NCAA Tournament. His familiarity with high‑level competition makes him a natural anchor for the new-look frontcourt.
Complementing Doty’s experience is Aiden Tobiason, another transfer, this time from Temple. Tobiason is expected to see minutes at both shooting guard and small forward, offering the team a rare combination of size and versatility. Last season he contributed 3.7 rebounds per game, and the coaching staff believes his rebounding will see a marked improvement as he adjusts to the Orange’s system.
Adding a sharpshooting dimension is Mark Morano Mahmutovic, a Slovenian prospect celebrated for his shooting accuracy. His ability to stretch the floor could prove decisive in tight games, and the staff expects him to earn substantial minutes at small forward as the team experiments with spacing and ball movement.
Freshman phenom Francis Folefac also enters the conversation, bringing a physical presence that could disrupt opponents’ interior defenses. His size and muscle are seen as assets that may allow him to contribute immediately, especially in matchups that demand a more robust frontcourt.
The fluidity of the depth chart reflects a broader strategy: interchangeable roles and a willingness to adapt based on opponent tendencies. Coach Gerry McNamara, a former Orange star, has emphasized that the team will leverage the unique strengths of each player rather than forcing a single archetype into the small forward slot. This approach not only maximizes talent but also cultivates a competitive environment where every practice could reshape the lineup.
The infusion of talent from institutions such as Siena, Temple, and even international pathways like Slovenia underscores the program’s expanding recruiting reach. As the Orange prepares to open the season, the blend of seasoned transfers and promising newcomers promises a dynamic and potentially breakthrough year for Syracuse basketball.