Shepherd University鈥檚 head men's basketball coach Justin Namolik has announced the addition of three new student-athletes for the 2026-27 season. The recruits include Waylon Colistra, Kris Doleman, and Kyren Oglesby, all of whom excelled in their high school careers. Colistra, a 6-6 forward, led his team to a 21-3 record, while Doleman, a 5-11 guard, contributed to a 19-4 record. Oglesby, a 6-4 guard, helped his team achieve a 24-5 record and win a state championship. Namolik is optimistic about their potential impact on the team as they transition to college basketball.

By the Numbers
  • Waylon Colistra: 16 points, 7 rebounds, 2.5 assists
  • Kris Doleman: 13.3 points, 4.2 assists, 3.3 rebounds
  • Kyren Oglesby: 10.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists
Yes, But

The selection of these recruits reflects a strategy focused on acquiring players from winning programs; however, their adjustment to the collegiate level and competition in the PSAC remains to be seen. While skills are present, college play can be a significant leap from high school. Coach Namolik's expectations for their development over time could face challenges based on the complexity of scout-level play.

State of Play
  • Shepherd returns five of its top six scorers from last season.
  • The program anticipates the return of Cole Paar, who missed the previous season due to injury.
What's Next

As the new recruits integrate into the team during practice, the Rams will emphasize competition against returning players. The coming season will test the collective strengths of the new additions and established players in navigating the challenges of the PSAC.

Bottom Line

The successful integration of these recruits with the existing roster will be pivotal for Shepherd's performance in the upcoming season. With a strong returning core and promising newcomers, the Rams may enhance their competitiveness in the league, but adapting to the next level is crucial for success.