Aberdeen, S.D. – Northern State University head coach Saul Phillips announced today that Sam Masten will join the men's basketball program. Masten is a native of Highlands Ranch, Colorado and a transfer from Northern Colorado. He will join Andrew Bergan (Aberdeen, S.D.), Trey Longstreet (Waverly, Minn.) and Jacksen Moni (Fargo, N.D.) in the fall.

Masten is a 6-foot-3, junior-guard and the son of Jason and Meg Masten. He attended Rock Canyon High School and was a 4-year starter for the Jaguars. Masten averaged over 20 points per game in his final two prep seasons. He was a 3-time all-state performer, 3-time all-conference selection, the 2018 Colorado Gatorade Player of the Year, Colorado Mr. Basketball, and 5A Player of the Year. Masten is the Rock Canyon all-time leading scorer and rebounder.
 
"When we began looking at Sam it was obvious the way he played would translate to our roster," explained Phillips. "He has exceptional quickness and shoots it well behind the 3-point arc."
 
Masten played three seasons at the University of Northern Colorado as a starter. He averaged 6.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 42.1% from the floor. The Highlands Ranch native was also a 2-time Academic All-Big Sky honoree.
 
Phillips added, "he has been a starter on a winning Division I team for a majority of three seasons. He is a combo guard that is electric with the ball in his hands. As a former Mr. Basketball in high school, he has had success at every level he has played. Sam is a natural leader and will be an emotional anchor in our locker room."