Oklahoma City, October 27, 2025

Oklahoma City University has officially signed three high school players for its 2026 basketball roster, including guard Jalen Carter and forwards Mia Reynolds and Ethan Holt. These recruits are expected to enhance the team’s fast-paced playing style and contribute to the program’s postseason goals. Coach Kyle McFarlin praises their fit within the team’s system, and the additions are anticipated to strengthen the Stars’ competitive edge as they prepare for upcoming exhibition games.

Oklahoma City University Signs Three High School Standouts to 2026 Basketball Roster

Oklahoma City – Oklahoma City University basketball coach Kyle McFarlin announced the signing of three high school standouts to the 2026 roster during a press conference held today. The new additions include guard Jalen Carter from Putnam City High, along with forwards Mia Reynolds and Ethan Holt from Deer Creek High. These recruits are expected to enhance the team’s up-tempo playing style and contribute to the program’s NAIA postseason aspirations.

The signings come at a pivotal time for the Stars, who reached the semifinals in the previous season. McFarlin highlighted how these players align perfectly with the program’s emphasis on fast-paced offense and defensive versatility. Carter, known for his scoring ability, averaged 22 points per game during his high school career at Putnam City High. Meanwhile, Reynolds and Holt bring essential size and versatility to the frontcourt, allowing for more dynamic lineups and improved rebounding.

Key Player Profiles and Contributions

Jalen Carter’s addition addresses the need for a reliable scoring guard. His high school performance, averaging 22 points per game, positions him as a potential immediate impact player. Carter’s skills in ball-handling and shooting are anticipated to fit seamlessly into the team’s high-speed offensive schemes.

Forwards Mia Reynolds and Ethan Holt add depth to the forward positions. Reynolds, with her athleticism and ability to stretch the floor, complements Holt’s physical presence in the paint. Both players from Deer Creek High have demonstrated versatility in high school games, switching between roles as needed. This flexibility will allow the coaching staff to adapt strategies during games, particularly in transition plays that define the team’s style.

Team’s Recent Performance and Future Outlook

Building on last season’s semifinal appearance in the NAIA tournament, Oklahoma City University aims to push further in the postseason. The team’s up-tempo approach has been a hallmark under McFarlin’s leadership, focusing on quick transitions and high-pressure defense. These new signees bolster an already competitive roster, providing fresh talent to maintain momentum.

With exhibition games scheduled to begin next month, the coaching staff has opportunities to integrate the newcomers early. These preseason matchups will serve as testing grounds for how well the recruits mesh with returning players. The emphasis on fitting into the up-tempo style suggests rigorous training sessions ahead to ensure cohesion before the regular season starts.

Background on the Recruiting Process

The recruiting efforts for the 2026 class reflect Oklahoma City University’s commitment to building through high school talent. Coach McFarlin’s strategy prioritizes players who can adapt to the demands of NAIA competition, where speed and endurance are crucial. Putnam City High and Deer Creek High, both located in the Oklahoma City area, have long been sources of local talent for the program.

High school basketball in Oklahoma continues to produce standout athletes, and this year’s signings underscore the Stars’ success in tapping into that pipeline. Carter’s scoring prowess at Putnam City High made him a top target, while Reynolds and Holt’s performances at Deer Creek High showcased their potential for college-level play. The press conference today served as the official reveal, marking the culmination of months of scouting and evaluation.

As the team prepares for the upcoming season, these additions signal an exciting chapter for Oklahoma City University basketball. The combination of experienced returners and eager freshmen could elevate the program’s standing in the NAIA. Fans can look forward to seeing how these high school standouts translate their skills to the collegiate level, starting with next month’s exhibitions.

Impact on Program Development

Securing these three recruits strengthens the team’s depth across multiple positions. The guard spot gains a dynamic scorer in Carter, while the forwards’ size from Reynolds and Holt addresses previous vulnerabilities in rebounding and interior defense. This balanced recruitment approach supports the long-term goal of postseason success.

Oklahoma City University’s basketball program has steadily built its reputation in recent years. Last season’s semifinal run demonstrated the effectiveness of the up-tempo system, and these signings are designed to sustain that progress. As exhibition games approach, the focus will shift to on-court chemistry, ensuring the new players contribute from day one.

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Author: HERE OKLAHOMA CITY