UAlbany Great Danes 2025–26 Season Preview: Dwayne Killings Hits Reset

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In the modern era of college basketball, roster turnover is inevitable. But at the University at Albany, head coach Dwayne Killings has taken transformation to a new level. Entering the 2025–26 season, Killings has effectively rebuilt the Great Danes from the ground up. Of the 16 players on this year’s roster, nine are transfers, and only one is a true freshman.

For a program looking to reestablish itself in the America East, this overhaul represents both opportunity and uncertainty. The mix of size, experience, and versatility is undeniable — but whether it translates into cohesion on the floor remains the season’s biggest question.

A Fresh Face: Paulino Joins the Pack

The lone freshman in the group, Wilkin Paulino, might just be the hidden gem. A 6-foot-2 guard from Worcester, Massachusetts, Paulino played at Proctor Academy, one of New England’s respected prep programs in the NEPSAC Class B. Competing in the elite Lakes Region League, he faced top national competition and developed a well-rounded game that should translate to the college level.

Paulino may not be expected to carry the load early, but his energy and defensive presence could make him an early contributor off the bench.

A Portal Pipeline: Experience Everywhere

If Paulino represents the future, the transfer class represents the now. Killings tapped into nearly every corner of college basketball to retool his roster, from high-majors to mid-majors and JUCO programs alike.

Okechukwu Okeke, a 6-foot-10 forward from Florida International, brings interior size and touch. In limited minutes last year, he averaged 4.7 points and 3.3 rebounds, highlighted by an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double against Florida National.

In the backcourt, Will Richardson arrives from Fordham after logging heavy minutes in the Atlantic 10. The 6-2 guard averaged 5.6 points and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 42% from the field. His steadiness could make him an early fixture in Albany’s rotation.

Nas Muhammad, a 6-1 guard from Northern Illinois, provides another scoring punch. Averaging 7.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, he showed the ability to create offense and stretch the floor with a 35% mark from beyond the arc.

Depth will come from Millies Rose (St. Bonaventure) and JUCO additions Jaden Kempson (Midland CC) and Abdoulaye Fall (Indian Hills CC) — all guards who add athleticism and defensive toughness.

Frontcourt Reinforcements

The front line has been just as active in the portal. Isaac Abidde (6-9, Cleveland State) and Ife West-Ingram (6-7, Rider) add size and versatility. Abidde played 31 games last year, starting 14, and contributed 3.4 points and 2.0 rebounds per game while showing flashes as a shot-blocker.

West-Ingram, who averaged 4.0 points and 2.6 rebounds, is a rangy forward who can guard multiple spots.

Tarique Foster, a 6-7 forward from UMass, provides depth and toughness, while Sully Aderwale (Iona) brings valuable starting experience — 25 starts, 4.5 points, and 2.9 rebounds — in a fast-paced system.

Perhaps the most intriguing addition is Yaya Keita, a 6-9 forward from Oklahoma who also spent time at Missouri. Though he sat out last season, Keita’s high-major background could make him a stabilizing force inside if he’s healthy and in rhythm.

Building Chemistry, Building Culture

With so many new faces, the biggest challenge won’t be talent — it’ll be time. Killings has built a roster long on potential but short on shared experience. Early-season chemistry will likely define the Danes’ trajectory in America East play.

Still, the optimism is real. UAlbany now boasts size, length, and versatility across the board — something recent editions have lacked. If the backcourt can find consistency and the forwards establish a presence inside, this could be the start of a legitimate turnaround.

As Killings enters this pivotal year, the 2025–26 Great Danes are less a rebuilding project and more a reinvention.

For UAlbany, that might be exactly what’s needed to climb back into the America East conversation.