Montana State University Billings announced that head coach Luke Fennelly has added eleven student-athletes to the roster ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, a move that underscores the program’s commitment to maintaining its recent run of four consecutive 20-win seasons.
A Class Defined by Versatility
The incoming group blends raw size, seasoned experience and a range of skill sets, giving the Yellowjackets depth across every position and a foundation for continued success.
In-State Talent Leads the Way
Five of the newcomers hail from Montana, including Chase Bad Bear, a 6-foot-8 forward from Billings Senior High who earned First Team All-State and All-Conference honors, and Zakai Owens, who posted a 6.1-point average at Dawson Community College and was named MVP of the 2025 Class AA championship.
Lane Love, who topped the state in scoring with 23.6 points per game and led Skyview High to a Class AA title in 2021, joins the program, as does Zicciah Callison, Lockwood’s all-time leading scorer with more than 1,000 career points.
International Reach
The class also welcomes prospects from Finland and New Zealand, bringing overseas experience that coach Fennelly believes will enrich the team’s tactical flexibility and global perspective.
Fischer Brown, a former Division I player at Western Carolina and the recent Montana player of the year, returns to his home state after a collegiate career that highlighted his scoring prowess and leadership.
Coach Fennelly emphasized that the class is designed not only to fill statistical needs but also to embed a culture of relentless effort, stating that the new players will be expected to contribute immediately both on and off the court.