HOUSTON – UST Men's Basketball team is set to return to the court for the 2025–26 season, led by Head Coach Anthony Medina in his 13th year. Last year in the 2024–25 season, UST finished their season 26-3, advance to the Second Round of the NCAA Division III National Tournament, and hosted for the first time in program history. The Celts enter the new season eager to build on last year's success.
Looking into the Season
The Celts season features 28 total games, including two exhibitions. The preseason will feature a scrimmage match up against East Central Univeristy and we jump right into the season and UST Homecoming.
UST will officially tip off the season at home on November 8 at 3 p.m. against the College of Biblical Studies, which will also serve as the University's Homecoming game. Following their home opener, the Celts will hit the road for games against East Texas Baptist University and a tournament in St. Louis, Missouri. The team will return to Houston around Thanksgiving on November 25 to take on Hardin-Simmons University—a rematch from last year's NCAA Tournament Second Round match up. After falling in a close battle last season, the Celts are looking forward to another competitive meeting.
Later in the schedule, UST will face Trinity University on the road in against a former SCAC opponent. Conference play will officially begin in December, as the Celts look to carry momentum into the heart of the season.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
This year's team blends veteran leadership with new talent. The Celts return several key contributors, including senior Angel Johnson, who earned NABC All-Region and SCAC First Team honors last season. Nathan Kongolo, an All-SCAC Freshman Team honoree, is back after a strong debut year, while Nicholas Buffalo returns as another critical piece for UST's success.
We are excited about another season at UST," Medina said. "At times, this team feels brand new, but it's the guys that have grown up in the program that we expect to be the foundation of our potential success. We've added a talented group of transfers and freshmen. We like our potential as a team and are eager to see if we can go out and earn it every night."
The Celts will also welcome eight newcomers—five freshmen and three transfers—who are expected to make an immediate impact and strengthen the roster's depth.
Ready for Tipoff
With a strong returning core, promising newcomers, and another exciting schedule ahead, the University of St. Thomas Men's Basketball team is ready to continue its winning tradition in 2025–26.
Check out the full schedule here: Click Here
