Brandon Mason Jr., a 6‑foot‑7 shooting guard from Albuquerque, announced his commitment to Xavier University on August 22, 2026, sending a clear signal that the Musketeers are intent on expanding their recruiting footprint into the Southwest.
A Recruit With a Vision
Mason, currently ranked seventh among shooting guards by 247Sports, honed his game at Albuquerque Prep and spent three seasons with the ABC Spotlight travel circuit, where his versatility and work ethic drew the attention of several power‑programs.
The decision came after a series of official visits, including a standout trip to Xavier that allowed him to forge connections with former UNM assistants Richard Pitino and Isaac Chew, as well as a familial link to the program through his father, former New Mexico State and UNM assistant coach Brandon Mason Sr.
Mason said he wants to demonstrate that New Mexico can produce talent capable of competing on the national stage, and he plans to lock in his college choice before his senior year so he can concentrate fully on elevating his performance on the court.
While other programs such as UNM, Grand Canyon University, Boise State and Ohio University made the final cut, it was Xavier’s blend of coaching relationships, academic fit and the chance to be a pioneer for his state that tipped the scales.