Just In: Basketball Bears Secure Three Additional Commitments
Missouri State head coach Martin, starting his second tenure, is excited to welcome three new players to the team: Chase Martin, Iago Stanback, and Makhai Valentine.
Each player has worked hard to develop their skills and contribute to the team, showcasing exceptional character through humility, leadership, and a team-first attitude.
Chase Martin, a senior from Columbia, Missouri, played four seasons at Purdue, participating in 27 games and contributing to the Boilermakers’ 2024 NCAA Championship game appearance. He was named to the Big Ten All-Academic Team three times and earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Martin was class valedictorian at Father Tolton Regional High School and earned all-conference and all-district honors as a senior.
Iago Stanback, a sophomore from Naples, Florida, earned All-Region honors and was named Palmetto Ridge High School Player of the Year in 2022-23. He averaged 20.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, leading his team to a district title and state tournament appearance. Stanback also played for Portugal’s 18U European Championship Team, averaging 2.1 points per game.
Makhai Valentine, a freshman from Munhall, Pennsylvania, was a prolific scorer at Steel Valley High School, averaging 33.7 points per game in his senior year. He led his team to a 16-win season and was named the state’s 3A player of the year. Valentine finished his career with a school-record 1,780 points, including a 63-point performance in a single game.
