mychesco
Delaware County Community College tipped off its 2026-27 men's basketball campaign with a narrow 57-56 triumph over Anne Arundel Community College on Nov. 3. The one-point decision gave the Phantoms a winning start as they begin play in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III ranks.
The early victory provides a foundation for DCCC as the program navigates a schedule within the 26-team Eastern Pennsylvania Athletic Conference Region 19. The Phantoms are guided by head coach Dwayne Saunders, who is in his fourth consecutive year at the helm during his second stint with the college.
Two new faces are expected to make significant contributions: freshman guard Chace White, a former Philadelphia Public League standout, and sophomore transfer Khaden Daley, who previously played at NCAA Division III Carlow University.
White, a 2026 graduate of Motivation High School in Philadelphia, earned All-Philadelphia Public League honors twice and averaged 34 points per game during his high school career. A business administration major, White is counted on to provide scoring as he adjusts to the collegiate level.
"Chace will look to provide DCCC with an immediate spark offensively and bring his scoring ability to the Phantoms this season," Saunders said.
Daley joins the Phantoms after attending Carlow University, adding previous college basketball experience to the roster. A native of Swiftwater, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Pocono Mountain East High School, Daley is also majoring in business administration.
Saunders identified Daley's perimeter shooting, physical play and leadership as attributes that could strengthen the team.
"Khaden brings valuable collegiate experience to the DCCC men's basketball program," Saunders said. "He looks to make an immediate impact with his toughness, perimeter shooting ability, and leadership on and off the court."
Saunders previously coached DCCC from 2010 through 2013, compiling a 55-22 overall record during that tenure. His earlier teams captured the 2011-12 Eastern Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference championship, establishing a record of success that the program is seeking to build upon.
The Phantoms will play their home games at FiDonce Gymnasium, located at 215 E. 21st St. in Chester, the former site of St. James High School. The facility is approximately 20 minutes from Delaware County Community College's Marple Campus in Media.
The Phantoms next home game is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m. against Williamson College of the Trades.
The upcoming games will provide an early test for a roster incorporating new players as DCCC begins its conference schedule.
Originally reported by mychesco.