The Cal State LA Golden Eagles men鈥檚 basketball team faced a transitional 2025-26 season, marked by coach Jim Saia's announced departure following a historic tenure. Despite battling injuries throughout the year, the team finished with a 9-19 record, narrowly missing a CCAA Tournament berth. The season featured memorable moments, including high-scoring matches and thrilling buzzer-beater victories, showcasing the team's determination. Moving forward, Hall of Famer Michael Cooper will take the helm, heralding a new chapter for the program.

By the Numbers
  • Cal State LA achieved a season-high 101 points in a game against San Francisco State, their first 100-point game since 2021.
  • Deraje Agbaosi averaged 13.4 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, earning second-team All-CCAA honors.
Yes, But

While the Golden Eagles experienced some impressive moments, their overall record reflects struggles, particularly on the road, where they lost six consecutive games. The team鈥檚 late-season wins helped to salvage some positives from a disappointing overall performance.

State of Play
  • The Golden Eagles finished tied for 9th in the CCAA with an 8-14 conference record.
  • Injuries significantly impacted team performance, contributing to their early-season challenges.
What's Next

With Michael Cooper set to lead the team, there is potential for a strategic overhaul and renewed focus on building a competitive program. The upcoming recruitment and training phases will be crucial to adapt to the new leadership and improve standings in future seasons.

Bottom Line

The Golden Eagles' 2025-26 season underscores the resilience of the team amid challenges, but it also sets the stage for potential revitalization under new leadership. The transition to Cooper will be key for addressing past shortcomings and fostering a stronger future for Cal State LA basketball.