HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Head coach Darrin Horn announces the signing of Kentucky natives Isaiah Mason and Sam Vinson to join the Northern Kentucky men's basketball team. Mason and Vinson comprise the 2021 recruiting class, joining a Norse squad that has won five league titles – two regular-season and three tournament – in the last four years.
"Recruiting the state is a huge priority for us so we are thrilled to be getting two of Kentucky's best," said Horn. "Both young men are high character winners from winning high school programs. They believe in our vision and commitment to player development and continuing to grow NKU basketball. Both will be outstanding additions to the Norse family."
Isaiah Mason
· Mason, a native of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and a Bowling Green High School product, joins the Norse after also competing for Manimal Elite.
· The 6-foot-4 guard averaged 16.1 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, while also eclipsing 1,000 career points as a junior.
· In addition to being an Honorable Mention All-State and All-4th Region selection last year, Mason is being mentioned as an early 2021 Mr. Kentucky candidate.
Horn on Mason
"Isaiah impressed me early on with his high motor, ability to impact the game in multiple areas on both ends, and the enthusiasm he brings to the game. He can make shots and fits perfectly as a multi-positional player in our system who will only continue to improve."
Sam Vinson
· A 6-foot-5 guard from Fort Thomas, Kentucky, and nearby Highlands High School, Vinson is the reigning 9th Region Player of the Year and 36th District MVP
· He is coming off a junior campaign in which he led the Bluebirds to a 28-4 record, while averaging 24.7 points, 4.8 assists and 8.7 rebounds.
· Heading into his senior campaign, Vinson is already a 1,000-point career scorer and is garnering early recognition as a 2021 Mr. Kentucky candidate.
Horn on Vinson
"Sam has been a priority for us since the first time I laid eyes on him. He brings good positional size, athleticism and versatility as a guy that can play all three perimeter positions. Sam is an excellent shooter, possesses tremendous basketball IQ and will fit well with our up-tempo style of play."
#NorseUp
