Howard Herman: What went right and wrong for UMass men's basketball

Published: Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 11:30 am

UMass Men's Basketball Season Ends with Mixed Results

The University of Massachusetts (UMass) men's basketball team concluded its 2025-26 season with a 17-16 record, failing to secure a spot in a postseason tournament. This marks a continuation of a trend, as the team hasn't advanced far in the NCAA Tournament since 2012, and hasn't reached the Final Four since 1996.

Coach Frank Martin, reflecting on the season, acknowledged the disappointment of not achieving championship aspirations. He highlighted the team's struggles, including giving up leads and failing to convert free throws in crucial moments. Despite these setbacks, Martin emphasized the positive aspects, such as the team's victory over Miami, handing them their first loss of the year.

The season also saw UMass finish eighth in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) tournament. Martin's overall record at UMass stands at 64 wins and 53 losses after four seasons. Athletic Director Ryan Bamford expressed continued support for Martin and his program, emphasizing the goal of building a championship-caliber team.

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 season, UMass faces the challenge of replacing key players, including the team's top three scorers, who combined for over 50% of the team's points. The team has signed four incoming freshmen, including two promising power forwards and a guard. The transfer portal, opening in April, will also play a role in shaping the roster.

BNN's Perspective:

While the season's outcome is undoubtedly disappointing for UMass fans, the athletic director's continued support for Coach Martin suggests a commitment to long-term growth. The team's struggles with closing out games and the need to replace key players highlight the challenges of building a consistently competitive program. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether UMass can overcome these obstacles and achieve its goal of winning championships.

Keywords: UMass, men's basketball, Frank Martin, season, NCAA Tournament, MAC, athletic director, Ryan Bamford, transfer portal, recruiting, championships, losses, wins

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