Troy adds Brazilian basketball player to 2026-27 roster
Helped lead E.C. Pinheiros to 30-8 record this season
Olivia Bennett 
The Troy men's basketball team is bolstering its frontcourt, officially adding Brazilian center Afonso Pacheco to the roster for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign.
International Impact
Standing at 6-foot-8, Pacheco brings high-level experience from Brazil’s first division. He was a key contributor for E.C. Pinheiros, helping lead the squad to an impressive 30-8 record. During his time on the floor, Pacheco averaged 4.5 points and 3.0 rebounds while logging 11 minutes per game.
A New Era in Troy
Troy head coach Adam Howard is clearly excited about the addition, noting that Pacheco's efficiency, toughness, and rebounding capabilities align perfectly with the team's identity. "He finishes at an elite level around the basket and brings a physical presence that fits exactly how we want to play," Howard said. "We believe his best basketball is still ahead of him, and we’re excited to help him continue his development at Troy."
Building the Roster
Pacheco marks the eighth new arrival since Howard took the helm in March. He joins a growing list of newcomers at 205focus.com, including forwards Sam Walters and Caden Diggs, as well as guards Robert Davis, Jacoi Hutchinson, Jayme Kontuniemi, Romain Valakou, and Willie Piggott.
The program enters the new season riding significant momentum, having captured the Sun Belt Conference championship and secured an NCAA tournament berth in each of the past two seasons. The Trojans are slated to tip off their 2026-27 schedule this November.
