Main Story: Northeastern State opens the 2026-27 men’s basketball season at the Central Region Challenge in Tulsa, facing Texas A&M-Kingsville on Friday and Henderson State on Saturday. The RiverHawks are rebuilding after a 13-15 season, with two returning players and 10 newcomers.

By the Numbers
  • NSU averaged 82.6 points per game last season, third in the MIAA, while allowing 80.3.
  • Dylan Tea averaged 6.0 points and 2.8 rebounds; Jaxson Vandegarde averaged 4.0 points and 1.7 assists.
  • NSU was picked 13th by MIAA coaches and 12th in the media poll.
  • The RiverHawks lead Texas A&M-Kingsville 7-6 in the all-time series.
Yes, But

NSU showed strong scoring and shooting last season, but ranked 12th in the MIAA in scoring defense and missed the conference tournament. The roster’s 10 newcomers bring potential, but little returning experience.

What’s Next

After the weekend tournament, NSU returns home to face Arkansas Tech on Nov. 17 at 6 p.m.

Bottom Line

The RiverHawks begin the season with two early tests—and a chance to see whether a revamped roster can turn last year’s offensive production into a more balanced team.