
Oregon Ducks Rebuild After Turbulent Season with New Transfers
Despite a 12‑20 record marred by injuries, the University of Oregon men’s basketball program is turning a new page with high‑profile transfers and a revamped lineup.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Nate Bittle across Basketball.

Despite a 12‑20 record marred by injuries, the University of Oregon men’s basketball program is turning a new page with high‑profile transfers and a revamped lineup.

The University of Oregon announced the hiring of Markhuri Sanders‑Frison to lead player development, recruitment and external relations, coinciding with the retirement of longtime assistant Kevin McKenna.

After sixteen years as an assistant under Dana Altman, Kevin McKenna steps down, reflecting on a career that blended NBA playing experience with player development at Oregon and beyond.

The summer league concluded last weekend, showcasing solid performances from former Oregon Ducks players, especially Nate Bittle, whose scoring and shooting percentages hint at a realistic NBA role.

Oregon’s five‑year star Nate Bittle has inked a deal with the Toronto Raptors, bringing his 16.8‑point, 6.9‑rebound production to the NBA summer league as he fights for a regular‑season roster spot.

After going undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft, Nate Bittle has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Toronto Raptors and will look to showcase his abilities during the Summer League and training camp.

Oregon’s basketball program is making moves on multiple fronts, from NBA Summer League participation to courting elite 2028 prospect Isaiah Hamilton, as the Ducks aim to bolster their roster for future seasons.

TJ Bamba will join the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Summer Leagues, bringing a blend of defensive prowess and college experience, while Oregon recruits high‑profile prospect Isaiah Hamilton, who is set to transfer to Montverde Academy.

A look at the Ducks' roster overhaul, key departures and the pressure on Coach Altman as the team seeks a rebound in the competitive Big Ten.

With rosters still in flux, the Big Ten braces for a 2026‑27 campaign marked by NBA draft entries, transfer portal moves and a handful of players still eligible for college play.

The Ducks hope a new strength and conditioning philosophy will reduce injuries and restore competitiveness after a turbulent season.

The Oregon Ducks, who finished last season with a losing record, are projected to earn an 11‑seed in the 2026‑27 NCAA Tournament. A wave of transfer additions, highlighted by Dwayne Aristode, Fred Payne and Andrew Meadow, could reshape the team's fortunes.

The Ducks are reshaping their roster under Dana Altman, adding transfers like Fred Payne and Jasper Johnson while hoping to improve on a 12‑20 season.

Gonzaga’s Graham Ike, a 6-8 forward, is being discussed as a potential late second-round pick in the 2026 NBA draft, having averaged 22.4 points and 7.0 rebounds last season and earned workouts with the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic.