Fresno State Will Rebuild Basketball Roster for 2026-27
The Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season with five new international additions and a roster overhaul.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Basketball
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Entering his third year as head coach, 70-year-old Vance Walberg will lead a significantly transformed Fresno State men's basketball team starting November 2, 2026. The program seeks to improve upon last season's 13-19 record by integrating five new international players and several key transfers.
Why it matters
The Bulldogs must quickly integrate a new lineup to remain competitive following the departure of key athletes and the programs transition into the PAC-12 conference. This roster overhaul is intended to stabilize team performance and improve ball movement ahead of the new season.
Ross Candelino joins the squad after shooting 42.6% from 3-point range, while Brian Amuneke returns with a 40.7% freshman 3-point shooting mark. Only two players remain from the previous roster following a series of departures.
The players
Vance Walberg
He is the 70-year-old head coach entering his third year leading the Fresno State men's basketball program.
Ross Candelino
He is a transfer athlete arriving from Lipscomb to play for the Bulldogs this season.
Brian Amuneke
He is a student-athlete who transferred back to Fresno State from Wichita State.
Dragos Lungu
He is an incoming player expected to be a major contributor for the team this season.
Roger Fabrega Urpina
He is an incoming player expected to be a major contributor for the team this season.
The details
Fresno State has revamped its lineup by adding five international recruits and welcoming back Brian Amuneke from Wichita State. With Ross Candelino transferring from Lipscomb and ongoing training focused on ball movement, the Bulldogs aim to adjust to a higher level of conference play.
Timeline
July 2026 marked the 70th birthday of head coach Vance Walberg.
The 2026-2027 season represents the third year of the current coaching tenure.
The season opener at the Save Mart Center is set for November 2, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The Bulldogs are navigating a total roster reset as they prepare to test their new lineup against the elevated competitive demands of the PAC-12 conference. Success this year hinges on how effectively the new international and transfer additions can coalesce under the veteran coaching staff.
Fans should monitor the integration of the five new international players, as they are expected to carry the bulk of the offensive production alongside returners. The primary rotation remains fluid as the staff waits for the recovery of currently injured players Nathan Zulemie and DJ Stickman.
The takeaway
The Bulldogs are banking on a high-percentage shooting influx to offset the loss of last years key contributors. Integrating five international talents remains the most critical challenge for the coaching staff as they aim to improve their 13-19 record from the previous season.
What happens next
The Bulldogs will play their season opener against Fresno Pacific on November 2, 2026, at the Save Mart Center.
Further reading
For more information on team development, visit Fresno Basketball.
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