Skyhawks Basketball Aims High in Second Year Under Coach Mast
The Fort Lewis College (FLC) men’s basketball team is gearing up for an ambitious 2025-2026 season, looking to build on its success from the previous year. Under the guidance of head coach Jordan Mast, who took the reins from Bob Pietrack, the Skyhawks exceeded expectations last season, finishing sixth in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) with a record of 19 wins and 12 losses. This year, they have set their sights even higher, aiming to host a regional in the NCAA tournament.
After being ranked ninth in the RMAC preseason poll for the 2024-2025 season, the Skyhawks have now moved up to fifth in the latest poll. Mast expressed enthusiasm about the current roster, which features a blend of returning players, transfers, and freshmen. “We are very excited for this year’s team and think we have a really good group, both on and off the court,” he said.
FLC faces the challenge of replacing its leading scorer, Biko Johnson, who averaged 16.3 points per game before graduating, along with Tru Allen, who contributed 12.5 points and was the team’s top passer. The return of fifth-year forward Chuol Deng is a significant boost. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Deng decided to return to FLC after being named Second Team All-RMAC last season. He averaged 13.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility as a modern power forward.
Mast noted Deng’s improvements, emphasizing his enhanced shot selection and decision-making. “His skills are sharper. His ability to finish around the rim has gotten better. He’s attacking off the dribble better,” Mast explained. With Deng’s potential to average 20 points and 10 rebounds per game, he is poised to become a key player this season.
Another player to watch is redshirt sophomore Stewart Erhart, who made an immediate impact last season with his defensive skills and averaged 8.0 points per game. Mast anticipates a more significant offensive contribution from Erhart this year. The team also benefits from the presence of senior forwards Keither Florence and Cassius Carmichael, as well as redshirt sophomore guard Nathan Penney.
FLC has added depth with the transfer of senior forward Massal Diouf, who joins after playing at Division I Western Illinois University. At 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 245 pounds, Diouf provides a much-needed physical presence. Mast praised his leadership qualities and mobility, noting that Diouf is capable of contributing on both ends of the court.
In addition to Diouf, the Skyhawks have welcomed junior guard Donald Bangham Jr., known for his athleticism and size. With these additions, FLC aims to improve its rebounding margin, which was among the lowest in the RMAC last season.
To address offensive efficiency, the Skyhawks have brought in transfer guards Jude Tapia, Jaxon Smith, and Yorgio Golesis. Tapia, who led the RMAC in scoring last season, faces a setback after suffering a torn meniscus but is expected to make a significant impact upon his return. Smith, a talented shooter from Division I Utah State, and Golesis, who is anticipated to start at point guard, will bolster the team’s offensive capabilities.
Despite injuries to promising freshmen, including guard Daniel Steverson and forward Garrett Barger, Mast is optimistic about fielding a nine-man rotation at the start of the season, with hopes of expanding it to ten once Tapia is back.
FLC will kick off its regular season on the road, facing Eastern New Mexico on November 10 and Western New Mexico on November 11. The schedule includes challenging matchups against ranked teams such as No. 25 Lubbock Christian University and West Texas A&M. Mast is confident that these tough games will prepare the Skyhawks for RMAC competition, where they aim to contend for both an RMAC championship and a regional title.
“We expect to compete not only for an RMAC championship but for a regional championship and compete nationally,” Mast said, emphasizing the high standards he sets for the team. With a blend of returning talent and new additions, the Skyhawks are poised for an exciting season.
