Fayetteville State University enters the 2026–27 men’s basketball campaign as the reigning champion of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association and the team to beat, according to the preseason poll.
Defending the CIAA Title Under Head Coach Devin Hoehn
Expectations in Fayetteville remain high as the Broncos prepare for a November tip-off with a target on their backs. Following a dominant run that secured the conference crown, the squad topped the 2026–27 CIAA Men’s Basketball Predicted Order of Finish. Opponents across the league are gearing up to challenge the reigning champions, but Hoehn looks to maintain the defensive intensity, full-court pressure, and up-tempo pace that defined his debut season.
The program must handle significant roster turnover heading into the new season. The Broncos lost several key contributors from last year’s championship run, most notably Larry Howell, who earned conference Player of the Year honors, and Ezekiel Cannedy, recognized as the league’s top sixth man.
Roster Reload with Travon Cooper II and Joseph Allen III
Despite heavy losses to graduation and departure, Fayetteville State retains experienced talent and high-impact newcomers. Guard Travon Cooper II returns after appearing in nearly every game last season, averaging 10 points per contest alongside active defensive contributions in steals and blocked shots.
The coaching staff bolstered the lineup with the addition of transfer forward Joseph Allen III. Allen enters the program after shooting better than 45 percent from beyond the arc last year. Recognition followed both players into the preseason, as Cooper and Allen earned selections to the CIAA preseason all-conference team.
Chasing a Deeper Run in the NCAA Division II Tournament
The primary objective for the Broncos centers on defending their conference title and advancing further in the NCAA Division II postseason tournament. Conference opponents including Bluefield State, Virginia State, and Claflin University are expected to challenge Fayetteville State's supremacy within the CIAA.
The regular season schedule gets underway in November, bringing an immediate test for a roster accustomed to championship expectations.
Related reading
