Mercyhurst men's basketball head coach Gary Manchel has appointed four new members to his coaching staff for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The additions鈥擝rendan Fitzpatrick, Josh Gregory, Jeff Planutis, and Luke Latina鈥攂ring a mix of coaching experience and success to the Lakers program, following a strong performance in the NEC Tournament last season. Manchel praised the new staff's work ethic, game knowledge, and aggressive recruiting strategies. Each coach has a proven track record of success at various educational institutions and levels.

By the Numbers
  • Brendan Fitzpatrick contributed to a 23-6 record at Tufts and an NCAA Elite Eight appearance.
  • Josh Gregory assisted in achieving a 40-14 record at SUNY Oswego with eight all-conference selections.
Yes, But

While the new coaching staff brings a wealth of experience, integrating new members into an existing program can pose challenges. Adjustments to coaching styles and team dynamics may require time for optimal performance.

State of Play
  • Mercyhurst is looking to build on its success from last season's NEC Tournament run.
  • The new staff is already actively involved in recruitment and preparations for the upcoming season.
What's Next

The Lakers aim to leverage the expertise of their new staff to enhance team performance. Key recruitment efforts and strategic planning will be crucial in the lead-up to the 2026-27 season.

Bottom Line

With a carefully selected coaching staff, Mercyhurst is positioning itself for a more competitive season ahead. The blend of experience from both coaching and playing enhances the program's potential for success.