Ben Stevens Men's Basketball Commitment Graphic

Men's basketball adds Stevens to 2026-27 recruiting class

8/22/2026 4:00:00 PM

by Cedric Gillette

CASTINE, Maine — The Maine Maritime Academy Men's Basketball program is excited to announce the addition of Ben Stevens to its 2026 recruiting class, the second under Head Coach Cedric Gillette.

Stevens, a 6'7" forward from Chester, Maryland, joins the Mariners after a successful career at Kent Island High School. A versatile frontcourt player with outstanding size and length, Stevens helped lead the Buccaneers to one of the most successful seasons in program history. He also competed on the Puma Circuit, consistently facing high-level competition while continuing to develop his game.

During his time at Kent Island, Stevens helped lead the program to its first Bayside District Championship in school history, a milestone achievement for the school. He also served as a varsity team captain, demonstrating the leadership, work ethic, and character that made him an integral part of the program's success.

Away from the court, Stevens enjoys fishing, swimming, and spending time with friends. He chose Maine Maritime Academy because it felt like the perfect fit both on and off the court. Stevens was drawn to MMA's outstanding academics and unique academic programs while believing the basketball program will help him continue to grow as a player and prepare him for a successful future. He plans to major in Vessels Operations & Technology at Maine Maritime Academy.

What They're Saying About Ben Stevens

Cedric Gillette, Head Coach, Maine Maritime:
"We are really excited to add Ben to our team. The first thing that jumps out when you watch Ben is his size and physical tools. Ben has a true college level frame, and he moves incredibly well for someone his size. Those movement qualities, combined with his length, give him the ability to be a really impactful rim protector and shot blocker. We think he has a chance to make a big difference for us on the defensive end of the floor.

One thing we really liked throughout the recruiting process was Ben's upside. He's still growing into his game, but he already has a lot of the tools you just can't teach. He's a great athlete for his size, protects the basket, runs the floor well, and has the type of frame that will continue to develop as he gets stronger. We think his best basketball is still in front of him.

Ben came to campus for a visit last summer, and we built a really strong relationship from that point on. We stayed patient throughout his senior season, and we were fired up when we were finally able to lock him up after his high school season ended. Ben is a great young man, fits exactly the culture we're trying to build, and I think he's going to have a really successful career here at Maine Maritime. I can't wait to get the opportunity to coach him."

Boe Gross, Head Coach, Puma Circuit
I had the privilege of coaching Ben during his AAU career, and I can confidently say he is the type of player every coach wants in their program. He has a high basketball IQ, is extremely coachable, and consistently puts in the work to improve. He's always one of the first players in the gym and one of the last to leave. He competes hard, hates to lose, and brings a level of consistency that coaches can rely on. Beyond his ability on the court, he is respectful, has great character, and is committed to getting better every single day. I have no doubt he will be a positive addition to your program."

Pete Corriero, Head Coach, Kent Island High School:
"Ben had a strong senior season where he was amongst the team leaders in points and rebounds, and led the team in blocked shots. He has all of skills necessary to transition to the college game."

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by Cedric Gillette

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