The Jackrabbits' coaching staff announced the addition of four transfer athletes to the 2026‑27 roster, a move that underscores the program's intent to compete at a higher level in the coming years. Each player arrives with a distinct skill set and a track record of performance that promises to enrich the team's depth and versatility.
Coach Bryan Petersen highlighted the excitement surrounding the new signings, noting that their collegiate experience will complement the returning core and the group of freshmen already committed to the program. 'These transfers bring a level of competitiveness that aligns with our ambitions,' Petersen said.
The New Faces
Jon MeKonnen, a 6‑8 forward from Eagan, Minnesota, previously contributed at Colorado State, appearing in 11 games during the 2025‑26 season. Recognized as a three‑star prospect by 247Sports and the seventh‑rated recruit in his home state, MeKonnen adds size and shooting ability to the lineup.
EJ Ryans, a 6‑3 guard hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, earned a starting role at Western Michigan, starting all 31 games and averaging 7.5 points per contest. Ryans helped his high school achieve three conference titles and two district championships, underscoring his leadership qualities.
Myles Thompson, a 6‑7 forward from Hutchinson, Kansas, brings a blend of experience from SIU Edwardsville and Barton Community College. Though limited to eight games at SIU Edwardsville due to injury, Thompson was part of a Barton team that captured the NJCAA Division I National Championship, highlighting his championship pedigree.
Jesse Van Kalsbeek, a 6‑6 forward from Sheldon, Iowa, arrives as the NAIA scoring leader with an average of 27.8 points per game in the 2025‑26 season. His outstanding performance earned him the Bevo Francis Award, recognizing the finest overall season in Small College Basketball, and he was also named Mr. Iowa Basketball for 2023‑24.
The transfers join previously signed freshmen Blake Ellwein, Semaj Stampley, and Cam Swearengen, forming a promising mix of youth and experience. The program will begin summer workouts in June as it fine‑tunes strategies and integrates the new talent ahead of the 2025‑26 season.
With a blend of proven collegiate performances, academic readiness, and a shared hunger for success, the incoming class aims to contribute immediately to the Jackrabbits' competitive edge. The coaching staff remains optimistic that these additions will help the team achieve its goals on the national stage.