Ocypher Owens, the Texas-born guard who concluded his college journey at Tarleton State, has officially penned his first professional contract with Puente Alto, a Santiago-based club competing in the Chilean LNB League. The signing marks the culmination of a five-year collegiate path that spanned Indian River State College, Le Moyne College, and finally Tarleton State, where he helped the Texans secure a top-five seed in the Western Athletic Conference Tournament.
From Texas to Chile: A Transatlantic Transition
Owens' collegiate résumé reads like a roadmap of growth. After two seasons at Indian River State, where he contributed to the FCSAA Southern Conference Regular Season Championship, he transferred to Le Moyne, delivering a career‑high 26 points in his freshman year and averaging nearly nine points per game over two seasons. His final year at Tarleton State saw him start 11 of the last 12 games, posting a season‑high 16 points against the Cincinnati Bearcats and recording his first double‑double with 13 rebounds and 10 points.
Puente Alto’s Ambitions in the LNB
The Chilean club has been a consistent contender, reaching the league quarterfinals in each of the past four seasons and finishing as regular‑season runners‑up last year. In 2024, Puente Alto advanced to the Chilean Cup semifinals, underscoring its competitive edge. The organization’s recent form sets the stage for Owens to make an immediate impact as the team opens its 2026 regular season on July 11, with a match slated for July 16.
Head coach Eric Haut expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, stating that Owens' blend of skill and work ethic aligns perfectly with the club’s vision. ‘We’re excited to welcome Ocypher to our roster,’ Haut said. ‘His experience and dedication will strengthen our efforts to push deeper into the playoffs.’
Owens took the opportunity to thank his alma mater, acknowledging that Tarleton State’s preparation was instrumental in readying him for the professional arena. ‘I’m grateful to Tarleton for the foundation it gave me,’ Owens remarked. ‘Now I’m eager to bring that same intensity to Chile and contribute to Puente Alto’s continued success.’
Looking Forward
As the new season unfolds, Owens will navigate the cultural and competitive nuances of Chilean basketball while aiming to translate his collegiate achievements into professional milestones. Fans in both Texas and Chile anticipate how the former Texan will shape the court dynamics of Santiago’s emerging basketball scene.