The North Dakota State Bison are preparing for a pivotal 2026‑27 season, and the coaching staff has announced the arrival of two overseas talents who could reshape the team's dynamics. Both players bring a blend of size, skill, and international pedigree that aligns with the program's recent emphasis on competitive depth.
Estonian Powerhouse Karl Poom
Standing at 6‑foot‑8, Karl Poom hails from Tartu, Estonia, and has already carved out a notable collegiate trajectory in the United States. After a freshman season at San Francisco in 2024‑25, he transferred to Northern Arizona, where he appeared in all 32 games last year and logged a career‑high 13.1 points per game in the FIBA U20 European Championship. His ability to score in double figures while contributing on the boards has drawn attention from analysts who view him as a versatile forward capable of stretching defenses.
Poom's statistical footprint extends beyond scoring. In Big Sky Conference play he averaged 10.5 points and 3.3 rebounds over 20 minutes per game, and he recorded two 20‑plus point outings that highlighted his scoring bursts. Those performances helped the Lumberjacks secure a sweep of the Summit League regular season and tournament, earning the Bison their sixth NCAA Tournament berth since 2009.
Spanish Guard Santiago Paz Vazquez
Joining Poom is Santiago Paz Vazquez, a 6‑foot‑7 guard from Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Paz's résumé includes a stint with Spain's national U20 squad, where he averaged 5 points and 3 rebounds at the 2023 FIBA U20 European Championship. A memorable moment from that tournament was a group‑stage clash against Poom, which Spain won 78‑56, underscoring the competitive edge both players bring to the court.
Paz's international exposure adds a tactical dimension to the Bison's backcourt. His experience in high‑pressure European competitions suggests a familiarity with fast‑paced, perimeter‑oriented play, qualities that could complement the team's existing guard rotation. The Spanish guard's shooting touch and playmaking instincts are expected to diversify the offensive schemes the Bison can deploy.
A Legacy of Success
The Bison's latest recruiting class arrives on the heels of a period marked by sustained excellence. The program has captured multiple Summit League titles and consistently earned NCAA Tournament invitations, a testament to the stability cultivated by the coaching staff and the university's basketball tradition. Adding Poom and Paz represents a strategic move to maintain that momentum while infusing the roster with fresh international flair.
Both newcomers will join a squad that has already demonstrated depth and resilience. Their integration promises to enrich the team's competitive edge as they prepare to face conference rivals and national opponents alike. The excitement surrounding their arrival reflects a broader narrative of growth and ambition within North Dakota State's basketball program.