UMKC Basketball Programs Launch New Eras
Mark Turgeon and Candi Whitaker take the helm as both UMKC basketball squads prepare for the upcoming season.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Basketball
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UMKC has appointed Mark Turgeon and Candi Whitaker as the head coaches for the men's and women's basketball programs. Both teams are set to play their home games at Municipal Auditorium starting this season.
Why it matters
The university is focused on elevating the athletic department's overall performance through strategic coaching hires and facility renovations. Coaches are prioritizing the recruitment of players who are prepared to be competitive immediately.
The men's team roster includes nine freshmen, while women's standout Emani Bennett reached 1,000 career points in just 81 games, totaling 1,166 points. Additionally, the women's team recently defeated Saint Louis University 101-90 in a scrimmage.
The players
Mark Turgeon
He is the current head coach for the UMKC men's basketball team.
Candi Whitaker
She serves as the head coach for the UMKC women's basketball team.
Emani Bennett
She is a key player on the UMKC women's basketball team who recently eclipsed 1,000 career points.
The details
The basketball programs have aggressively utilized the transfer portal to reshape their rosters for the new season. UMKC is currently investing in the renovation of its on-campus athletic facilities and offices to support the teams.
Timeline
Candi Whitaker previously served as UMKC head coach from 2006 to 2012.
The men's team played home games downtown in 2019.
The women's team defeated Saint Louis University 101-90 on October 16, 2026.
An exhibition doubleheader is scheduled for October 26, 2026, at Municipal Auditorium.
The official season opens for both basketball teams on November 2, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The men's team is looking to make its first NCAA Tournament appearance while the women's team aims to climb the rankings in the Summit League. These efforts are measured against the preseason poll, which provides the baseline expectation for their competitive progress this year.
Fans can anticipate seeing a roster heavily reliant on nine freshmen for the men's team as they navigate the upcoming schedule. The women's team enters the season with momentum following a 101-90 scrimmage victory, signaling potential offensive strength for the year.
The takeaway
The arrival of new coaching leadership marks a transition toward a more aggressive recruitment strategy for the university. Players and staff are banking on immediate integration to shift the team's standing within the Summit League.
What happens next
The official season for both programs opens on November 2, 2026, following an exhibition doubleheader at Municipal Auditorium on October 26, 2026.
Further reading
Find more local sports updates on the Basketball page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Kansas City Star.
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