A Fresh Look at the Rams’ Incoming Talent
Colorado State’s basketball program is set to welcome a five‑man freshman class for the 2026‑27 season, a move that could reshape the Rams’ depth chart heading into the next campaign.
Among the newcomers, point guard Pops Dunson arrives from Georgia, where he captained his high school to a state championship and posted 17.8 points and 5.3 assists per game as a senior. Ranked as the fifth‑best recruit in CSU history, Dunson is expected to battle for the starting point‑guard spot and will be tasked with orchestrating the offense under Coach Ali Farokhmanesh.
Center Jaden Ghoreishi, a 6‑foot‑9 prospect from Washington, brings a blend of strength, physicality and athleticism despite missing part of his senior season due to a health issue. He was previously lauded as the No. 3 all‑time recruit in CSU history by 247Sports, and his presence could add a new dimension in the paint.
Forward Eric Fiedler, a 6‑foot‑6 Colorado native, earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors after averaging 29.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Known as an elite shooter, he will contend for a backup forward role, bringing scoring punch that could prove decisive in tight games.
Also joining the roster is 6‑foot‑10 center Jaxon Clark from Iowa, the Class 3A Player of the Year who tallied 27.9 points and 17.8 rebounds per game in his senior season. Though viewed as a developmental prospect, his skill set offers long‑term upside for the program.
Guard River Sawyer, a 6‑foot‑4 walk‑on from University High School in Greeley, contributed 18.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game before signing with the Rams. While his playing time may be limited, he is expected to serve as a valuable scout‑team member, helping the varsity squad prepare for upcoming opponents.
Coach Ali Farokhmanesh has emphasized that Dunson will be given the opportunity to compete for the playmaker role, while Ghoreishi’s versatility could earn him significant minutes if he stays healthy. Fiedler’s shooting prowess and Clark’s rebounding will be evaluated during practice, and Sawyer’s work ethic will be a boon for the scout unit.