Minot State Basketball: Reloading for Continued Success

Coming off a historic season, the Minot State Beavers are gearing up for an exciting new chapter in their basketball journey. Under the direction of head coach Matt Murken, the program is not only looking to build on their recent achievements but also significantly enhance their roster for the 2024-25 season.

A Season to Remember

The Beavers have made headlines by securing their first NCAA national ranking, which included an impressive upset against the top-ranked team in the country. With a remarkable record of 20 wins last season, Minot State is clearly poised on the brink of greatness. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of five talented transfers brings a wealth of experience and prowess to the court.

The next generation of Minot State’s basketball stars.

New Faces, New Opportunities

The influx of five transfers is sure to shake things up. Each brings unique skills and a proven track record of success at their previous schools.

Ayouba Berthe

A 6-foot-4 guard hailing from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Berthe joins the Beavers after an impressive stint at Kirkwood Community College. Over two seasons, he averaged 11 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his efficiency with a shooting percentage of 43.3%. His contributions on defense—66 steals and 26 blocked shots—demonstrate his well-rounded game.

Max Groom

Coming from Perth, Australia, Max Groom is another exciting addition. The 6-foot-2 guard has already tallied over 1,000 collegiate points and averaged an impressive 16.7 points per game at Dakota College. Not only is he a prolific scorer with a shooting percentage exceeding 50%, but he is also a dynamic playmaker with over three assists per game.

Lual Lual

Standing at 6-foot-7, Lual Lual joins from Mesa Community College, where he made a name for himself as a sturdy forward. With averages of 11.6 points and 7.9 rebounds, his shooting percentage of nearly 50% highlights his scoring efficiency. His defensive capabilities are equally noteworthy, making him a versatile addition to the Beavers’ lineup.

Daryl Rice Jr.

The 5-foot-9 guard from Tyrone, Georgia, comes with a wealth of experience from Maryville College. As a team captain and starter, Rice has averaged 7.0 points and nearly 3 assists per game. His leadership skills, paired with notable achievements like being named Male Athlete of the Year at his college, suggest he will be a cornerstone of Minot State’s team culture.

Sam West

Finally, we have Sam West from Shakopee, Minnesota. The 6-foot-5 forward brings a strong physical presence to the paint, having averaged 15.5 points and 8.3 rebounds in his final season at Iowa Lakes. His contributions helped the Lakers reach the NJCAA National Tournament, and his accolades reflect both his talent and dedication on the court.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Season

As the Beavers look to start their campaign, they will take to the court for the Conference Challenge tournament hosted by Minnesota Duluth. The opener against East Central (Okla.) on November 8 is sure to be an exciting affair, as fans will finally see these new recruits in action. Following that, the home crowd at MSU Dome will welcome the team as they host Jamestown on November 20.

Coach Murken has expressed his enthusiasm about this year’s recruiting class, saying, “This recruiting class adds a lot of talent, toughness, and winning attributes! We are extremely excited with what each of these young men brings to our program. They impact winning in nearly every way: They love the game of basketball and are hungry to compete every day.”

Conclusion

The Minot State Beavers are clearly making strategic moves to position themselves for future success. With a mix of returning players and new talent eager to make their mark, fans have every reason to be excited. This season promises not just games, but a showcase of hard work and determination on the path to greatness. The journey begins soon, and I can’t wait to see how these young men translate their skills onto the hardwood. Let’s get ready for a thrilling season of Minot State basketball!

Stay tuned for season updates, game scores, and highlights throughout the year!