IRVINE, Calif. -- Mason Hodges and Josh Palmer round out the newcomers joining the UC Irvine men's basketball team in 2025-26.

Hodges, a 6-6 forward, hails from San Juan Hills High School where he averaged 24.2 points, 12.4 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game as a senior. The freshman was a first team All-CIF and All-Orange County selection as well as a three-time Seaview League MVP. He helped the Stallions to a CIF Southern Section D2 Championship and Seaview League title. Hodges graduated as San Juan's all-time leading scorer (1,604) and rebounder (874).

"We are excited to add Mason to our basketball program," head coach Russell Turner said. "His mixture of size and skill make him a good fit for our basketball team. We have tracked him throughout his year at San Juan Hills and are happy he chose to stay home and continue to grow and get better." 

Palmer comes to UCI from St. Bernard High School. The 6-3 guard was a second team All-Del Rey League selection. He earned all-tournament honors at the Father Berry Classic and Visit Mesa Basketball Challenge as well as bringing home MVP of the DaVinci Tournament in 2025 and Coastal Catholic Classic in 2024. He was also a member of the 2022 CIF Division I championship team. Palmer's father, Rod, played for the Anteater basketball team for two seasons (1989-90).

"Josh comes to us after having a good season at St. Bernard," Turner said. "Josh is someone that I view as a cerebral, talented, rangy athlete who has his best days of basketball ahead of him. Josh fits UC Irvine and we are excited to see his continued growth."

UC Irvine is coming off a school record season, going 32-7 overall and advancing to the championship of the NIT.