The St. Lawrence University men's basketball team opens the 2025-26 season in the friendly confines of Burkman Gymnasium, looking to compete in the Liberty League with a youthful roster anchored by returning All-Liberty League standouts Adam Dudzinski and Dan Anderson.

The Saints enter the new campaign following a tournament appearance under longtime head coach Chris Downs, who guided St. Lawrence to a 16-10 record and the program's third straight Liberty League semifinal in 2024-25. The team finished among the nation's defensive leaders, ranking third in Division III in scoring defense (58.7) and second in opponent field goal percentage (36.1%).

Downs, entering his 29^th season patrolling the St. Lawrence sideline, knows the challenge of retooling after graduating one of the program's most experienced groups. "It will be hard to replace last year's senior class," Downs said. "They were some of the toughest-minded players in program history."

Downs noted that this year's group has brought renewed energy to the court.

"We have excellent returning leadership and youthful enthusiasm, which has made our practices fun," he said. "The league is so incredibly tough, and we can't wait to get started."

Dudzinski, a Second Team All-Liberty League selection, averaged a team-best 14.1 points per game for seventh overall in the conference. He added 6.7 rebounds per game, good for eighth in the Liberty League. Anderson provided another reliable scoring option, averaging 11.0 points per game in 26 appearances, including 18 starts. He shot .443 from the floor and .402 from three-point range – both team-highs.

Downs also highlighted some players who he sees advancing into more prominent roles in the upcoming year, namely Colton Suriano and Chris Downs Jr. Two larger-framed players who have patiently waited their turn to occupy impact roles in the lineup. "They are both ready to step up," Downs continued. "These are 6'5" skilled players with high basketball IQ."

Additionally, joining the roster are many first-year players who will look to make an immediate impact, including: Drew Baker, Connor Parkes, Tommy McMahon, Dan Hoey, Jlin Brown, Grady Goodman, and Aidan Phelan.

The Saints' trademark defensive intensity powered them through a perfect 6-0 non-conference record last winter, including a season-opening win over Oswego State and a Clark Tournament title. They will aim to recapture that early-season success as they begin their non-conference swing.