DUBUQUE, Iowa – The Loras College men's basketball team is set to begin its season in the Loras Tip-Off Classic on Nov. 8 and 9. The Duhawks open against DePauw University on Saturday and follow up with Kalamazoo College on Sunday. Both games are set to tip-off at 1 p.m.
 
For the second consecutive season, the Duhawks were picked to finish third in the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) preseason men's basketball poll, earning 53 points and two first-place votes.
 
Head coach Chris Martin returns for his 10^th season at the helm of the Purple and Gold and loves the pieces he retains for the 2025-26 season.
 
"We love our group of returners and are really excited about our incoming class, which we expect to play a big role in our success this season," said Martin.
 
Two key pieces in the collective group include two all-league players in Gavin Sarvis and Jack Haynes. Sarvis was second last season in points per game (15.1) and led the team in assists with 63. Haynes led the Duhawks in rebounding average (8.1) and posted a strong 12.5 points per game. Another important returner for Loras is senior guard Emmet Lowe. Coach Martin states that his, "versatility and leadership will make a huge impact." Experienced veterans in Kyle Kober, Nolan Berendes, and Connor Mosele are also expected to bring important contributions to this year's success.
 
Along with the valuable returners, Martin ushers in talented transfers to round out his roster, and credits his captains for their efforts to mold this year's squad.
 
"Jimmy Navarette and senior Patrick Quarnstrom have done an incredible job holding the team accountable and setting the tone as positive leaders both on and off the court."
 
Loras comes off a 17-9 season, with a 11-5 conference record. They concluded their season in the first round of the A-R-C tournament, falling to (6) Wartburg College, 96-86.
 
The Duhawks open conference play on the road against the University of Dubuque on Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m.