Basketball: Marshall Hosts Buffalo in Season Opener

Marshall University basketball begins its 2026-27 season on Monday night at the Henderson Center in Huntington, West Virginia. The Thundering Herd will face Buffalo at 7 p.m. in an event known as the Mid-American Conference-Sun Belt Challenge. The game is available for viewing on ESPN+.

Head coach Cornelius Jackson wants to see a different style of play than what his team displayed in their final exhibition. Marshall defeated NAIA program Pikeville 78-68 on Wednesday, but Jackson said the visitors out-scrapped the Herd. "Even though we won the game, they outplayed us, out-scrapped us and were tougher than us," Jackson said. He noted the team is searching for consistency and leadership.

Statistical issues from the Pikeville game remain a focus for the coaching staff. Marshall shot 3-for-23 from beyond the arc, a low percentage that Jackson views as troubling. The Herd also failed to secure the boards despite a size advantage, losing the rebounding battle against the smaller NAIA opponent. These two areas require immediate correction before Monday's contest.

The projected starting lineup for Marshall includes graduate student Noah Otshudi and sophomore Bryce Slay. The backcourt will be joined by three transfers: Colt Langdon, Emmanuel Manyoun, and Khaman Maker. Buffalo enters the season after posting a 17-15 record last year, including a 7-11 mark in the MAC. Coach George Halcovage begins his fourth season with the Bulls, having previously served on the Villanova staff.

Buffalo also relies on a roster heavy with transfers. The Bulls won their only exhibition game against Mercyhurst with a 71-66 score. Historical records show Marshall holds a 10-5 advantage over Buffalo, though the two teams have not played since 2005. Marshall women also start their season on Monday with a road game at Massachusetts at 6 p.m.