CASE SUMMARY
A new era of King's College men's basketball begins in 2026-27 as first-year head coach Phil Pierfy takes the reins of a program eager to return to the MAC Freedom postseason.
 
The Monarchs enter the season with a blend of established veterans and promising newcomers, creating optimism that King's can position itself for a return to the conference playoffs and recapture a standard that has historically defined the program.
"We're looking to lean on returners with experience and some newcomers to return to the conference playoffs for the first time since the '14-'15 season," Pierfy said.
 
 
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
The Monarchs were selected tied for sixth in the 2026-27 MAC Freedom Men's Basketball Preseason Poll, which was voted on by the conference's head coaches.
 
Stevens topped the poll with 64 points and eight first-place votes, followed by Misericordia (51), DeSales (49), Arcadia (48), Lebanon Valley (35), King's (26), FDU-Florham (26), Delaware Valley (13), and Marywood (12).
 
As the season approaches, King's is focused on building consistency and putting itself in position to compete for a postseason berth.
 
 
 
PROGRAM OUTLOOK
King's will look to a veteran senior class to help guide the program throughout the season.
 
Ben Rodner-Tims, Matt Christian, Sean Forrest, Ray Gooley, Cole Walker, and Devin Kimmick return as key contributors after gaining valuable experience throughout their careers. Their familiarity with the conference and ability to navigate pressure situations should help provide stability as the Monarchs pursue a return to postseason play.
"A connected senior class with experience in competitive games returns to lead the team," Pierfy said. "They all have played in big games at this level."
 
That leadership group will also play an important role in helping newcomers adjust while setting the standard for a team looking to compete deep into conference play.
 
 
MONARCH NOTES
One of the defining characteristics of this year's team has been the relationships built throughout the program.
"We have a connected group that is very close on and off the court, and hungry for success," Pierfy said.
 
That chemistry has been complemented by a strong commitment to preparation away from the hardwood.
"The team has shown a real commitment to the weight room and putting in the work behind the scenes," Pierfy said. "Coach Mikey, Coach Ross and the entire strength staff have been great pushing the group and preparing them to compete."
 
The coaching staff believes that dedication shown throughout the offseason will help the Monarchs handle the demands of a long conference season.
 
 
THE ROAD AHEAD
The focus for King's is not centered on a single matchup, but rather on embracing the expectations and traditions associated with the program.
"We are looking to embody the traits that have made King's Basketball successful over the years and continue the tradition that has been built here," Pierfy said.
 
The Monarchs will begin that journey at home on Nov. 11, where they hope to build momentum with the support of the King's community.
"We hope to make every home game enjoyable and look to rally behind the support of the community starting with our home opener on November 11th," Pierfy said.
 
 
MISSION STATEMENT
For Pierfy, success will ultimately be measured by the team's growth throughout the season.
"As a program we are focused on continuing to grow and improve and be playing our best basketball as conference play comes around," Pierfy said. "We look to compete for a playoff spot in a tough and talented league."
 
That patient approach has shaped the program's offseason and will continue to guide the Monarchs as they strive to put themselves in position to compete when the stakes are highest.
 
With a new coaching staff, veteran leadership, and a shared commitment to improvement, King's enters the 2026-27 season eager to begin the next chapter of Monarch basketball.