Central Connecticut Men’s Basketball Reloads Roster
Coach Patrick Sellers integrates nine newcomers into a team chasing a third Northeast Conference title in four years.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Basketball
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Central Connecticut State University is debuting a retooled roster featuring nine new players alongside five returners. The squad aims to build on recent success following consecutive Northeast Conference regular season titles in 2024 and 2025.
Why it matters
The program successfully recruits undervalued talent to compete despite limited NIL funding. By fostering a culture of competitive arrogance, coach Patrick Sellers maintains a high standard for a team that averages 21 wins per season.
The roster includes key returner James Jones, who started 23 games last season, and newcomer Raphel Laurent, who averaged 22.4 points per game at UMass Boston last season. Additionally, Roddy Jones returns after shooting 38.8 percent from three-point range.
The players
Patrick Sellers
He is the head coach of the Central Connecticut State University men's basketball team who has previously held assistant roles at programs including Creighton.
James Jones
He is a junior guard for Central Connecticut State University who started 23 games during the previous season.
Raphel Laurent
He is a new addition to the roster who joins the team after averaging 22.4 points per game at UMass Boston.
Roddy Jones
He is a returning guard known for his perimeter shooting efficiency.
The details
Coach Patrick Sellers focuses on recruiting players who were overlooked by other schools and possess a desire to prove their value. This strategy aims to sustain the competitive momentum that led to back-to-back Northeast Conference regular season championships.
Timeline
2000: Patrick Sellers served as an assistant coach.
2013-2015: Patrick Sellers served as an assistant coach at Creighton.
2024: CCSU won the NEC regular season title.
2025: CCSU won the NEC regular season title.
Season Trajectory
This roster overhaul represents a critical transition for the program as it looks to build upon the momentum of the 2024 Northeast Conference regular season championship. The integration of nine new players will determine if the team can maintain its status as a perennial title contender.
With four players having transferred out last season, the team's success now hinges on the integration of new recruits like Raphel Laurent. Fans should track whether this rotation can match the production of the 2025 championship squad.
The takeaway
The program demonstrates that consistent success can be achieved through disciplined recruiting of overlooked talent. Building a cohesive unit from a large group of newcomers remains the primary challenge for the coaching staff this season.
Further reading
For more on the team, visit the Basketball page.
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