WINFIELD, Kan. — The Southwestern College men's basketball team enters the 2025-26 season looking to build on last year's 18-11 campaign under 17th-year head coach Matt O'Brien.

The Moundbuilders were picked fourth in the KCAC Media Poll and fifth in the Coaches Poll as they aim to climb the conference standings after finishing sixth a year ago.

Southwestern returns a strong veteran core led by seniors Wyatt Bell (16.6 points, 4 rebounds per game) and Zach Hidalgo (9.8 points, 12.8 rebounds), along with junior guard Evan Barber (16.2 points, 3.2 assists). Bell and Barber provide a potent scoring duo, while Hidalgo anchored a team that led the nation in total rebounds per game last season.

Senior sharpshooter Austin Hilton (9.4 points, 47% from 3-point range) and senior forward Emery Eberhard (2.5 points, 2 rebounds) also return to give the Moundbuilders experience and depth. Redshirt sophomore returners Eli Sawyers and Logan Churchill, along with redshirt freshman Jesse Ledbetter will look to make an impact this year as well. 

The program welcomes five transfers to the roster, including junior forward Nigel John, who redshirted in the spring semester, juniors Elijah Credle and Jace Breath, and seniors Jayden Bridgeman and Isaac Hoberecht. With four players standing 6-foot-7 or taller, Southwestern is expected to continue its strong rebounding presence from last season while stretching defenses with its outside shooting.

O'Brien's staff remains consistent with Jimmy McSorley entering his seventh year on staff and fourth Associate Head Coach. Micah Gabler also returns for his fourth season and 3rd as Assistant Coach, while Graduate Assistants Abraham Rodriguez and Marvin Ruffin join the program for their first year.

The Moundbuilders open the 2025-26 season on October 28th at home against Hesston College. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. inside Stewart Fieldhouse.