Local Basketball Star Commits to Idaho State University

Bryce Lowenbach, Oregon 5A Co-Player of the Year, chooses to stay close to home for college

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:00pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in shades of blue, green, and orange, conceptually representing the fragmented, multi-faceted nature of a basketball game or match.A rising star's college commitment could signal a shift in the regional basketball landscape.Pocatello Today

Bryce Lowenbach, a 6-foot-10 center from Crook County, Oregon, has committed to play basketball at Idaho State University. Lowenbach, the recent co-winner of the Oregon 5A Player of the Year award, led his high school team to their first-ever state championship game this past season, averaging impressive stats of 23.5 points, 15 rebounds, and strong assist and steal numbers.

Why it matters

Lowenbach's decision to stay in the Pacific Northwest and play for Idaho State is seen as a sign of the region's growing reputation in college basketball. His choice challenges the traditional dominance of other basketball powerhouses and could spark a new era of excellence for Northwest programs.

The details

At 6-foot-10, Lowenbach is an imposing presence on the court with his size and all-around skills. His decision to commit to Idaho State University, located in Pocatello, Idaho, keeps him close to his home region of the Pacific Northwest. Lowenbach had offers from several other colleges but chose to stay local, a move that could inspire more top talent to consider Northwest programs.

  • Lowenbach led his Crook County high school team to the state championship game this past season (2025-26).
  • Lowenbach was named the Oregon 5A Co-Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season.

The players

Bryce Lowenbach

A 6-foot-10 center from Crook County, Oregon who was recently named the Oregon 5A Co-Player of the Year after leading his high school team to the state championship game.

Idaho State University

A public university located in Pocatello, Idaho that competes in the NCAA Division I Big Sky Conference. Idaho State's men's basketball program has had limited success in recent years but is hoping Lowenbach's commitment can help elevate the program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Bryce is the type of player that can really put our program on the map. We're thrilled to have him join the Idaho State family.”

— Wayne Tinkle, Head Coach, Idaho State University Men's Basketball

What’s next

Idaho State University will look to build around Lowenbach as he joins the team for the 2026-27 season. The university is hoping his commitment can help attract more top talent from the Pacific Northwest region.

The takeaway

Bryce Lowenbach's decision to stay close to home and play for Idaho State University is a significant moment for college basketball in the Pacific Northwest. His choice challenges the traditional dominance of other regions and could inspire more top prospects to consider Northwest programs, potentially ushering in a new era of excellence for the sport in this part of the country.