Top UCF Basketball Players to Watch in the 2025-26 Season
The UCF Knights men’s basketball team is gearing up for the 2025-26 season, with a game against Hofstra scheduled for Monday at 8 p.m. The team faces a significant challenge this year, as they need to fill the scoring void left by graduating players. To address this, head coach Johnny Dawkins has recruited 13 new players, predominantly from the transfer portal.
Top UCF Basketball Players to Watch in the 2025-26 Season
Among the newcomers, three players are expected to significantly impact the Knights’ performance this season.
Riley Kugel
Riley Kugel is a 6-5 guard who transferred from Mississippi State. A native of Orlando, Kugel has returned home after spending the last season with the Bulldogs. Previously, he played at the University of Florida, contributing valuable experience to the Knights.
- Started both exhibition games against Duke and LSU.
- Scored 22 points against Duke and 21 against LSU.
- Led the team with seven rebounds against Duke.
Jamichael Stillwell
Jamichael Stillwell stands 6-8 and transferred in from UW-Milwaukee, where he was named All-Horizon League First Team. Last season, he excelled at the JUCO level, averaging 13 points and 10.7 rebounds per game. His versatility and performance in practice make him a high-profile addition for the Knights.
- Averaged 13 points and 10.7 rebounds last season.
- Faced challenges shooting against Duke, going 4-12 from the field.
- Led the Knights with seven rebounds versus LSU.
Themus Fulks
Themus Fulks, a 6-2 guard also from Milwaukee, joins the Knights with a solid resume. He was named to the All-Horizon League Second Team last season and averaged 14.6 points per game. His contributions include strong free-throw shooting and playmaking abilities.
- Averaged 14.6 points per game last season.
- Scored 120 free throws out of 149 attempts.
- Recorded nine assists during the exhibition games.
Despite initial difficulties finding their shooting rhythm in exhibition matches, both Stillwell and Fulks are focused on developing their roles within the team. With the new talent and their ambitions, the Knights are poised to make an impression in the upcoming season.
