MARSHALL — Southwest Minnesota State University head men’s basketball coach Brad Bigler announced Thursday two high school seniors have recently signed letters of intent to continue their academic and basketball careers at SMSU.

Joining the SMSU program for the 2020-21 season include Jacob Owen from Overland Park, Kan., and Isaac Soumis from Thorp, Wis.

“This 2020 recruiting class was all about complimenting the 2019 class,” Bigler said. “With eight freshmen on campus it has been fun watching their growth this fall. The additions of Jacob and Isaac bring great depth inside going into the future. The best part is that we have the ability to invest time into them as both will redshirt next year. We are excited about the families joining because they were a big part of this process and understanding the big picture.”

Owen, a 6-foot-10, center at Blue Valley High School, missed much of his junior season due to an injury.

“For Jacob’s size and length he moves extremely well,” Bigler said. “His ability to jump and cover ground will help him be a great defender. We all know how physical the NSIC can be. It’s important for a guy like him to gain strength not only for performance but even more for injury prevention. We have never had a guy like Jacob in my time here at SMSU which makes it even more exciting.”

Soumis, a 6-foot-7, forward, at Thorp High School, has twice earned all-conference honors heading into his senior season. He was also first team all-conference in football and earned honorable mention all-conference honors in baseball.

“Isaac is an athletic forward who plays with a high motor,” Bigler said. “His ability to rebound out of his area and defend multiple positions stood out. He reminded me of (former Mustang) Ross DeMasi in many ways. Like Ross, Isaac is the ultimate competitor. It was fun watching Isaac compete against some of the best and never flinch.”

“As we finish the year we will be patient in the recruiting class,” Bigler said. “With no seniors we have the ability to be selective. Coach Smith, Coach Polesky and Coach Schafer have got off to a good start on the 2021 class. I’m very thankful for all their help. Recruiting is a group effort and all of these guys represent SMSU well.”

— Content courtesy

of SMSU Athletic

Communications