Southern Illinois Salukis Secure Spotlight with Talented Freshmen Trio
A New Chapter in Saluki Basketball
In a move set to propel their basketball team into new heights, Southern Illinois men’s basketball coach Scott Nagy announced the signing of three impressive freshmen on National Signing Day. This latest recruitment promises to infuse the Salukis with fresh talent and bolster their position in upcoming seasons. As stated in Southern Illinois University Athletics, the announcement has been met with excitement from fans and pundits alike.
Talented Roster Addition: Ty Laur
Among the promising recruits is Ty Laur, a local talent hailing from Pinckneyville, Illinois, a mere 40-minute drive from Carbondale. The 6-foot-8, 225-pound center displayed his prowess on the court during his junior year, averaging 13.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 3.5 assists per game. Laur’s remarkable shooting skills, with 72 percent from the field and 43 percent from behind the arc, have made him a standout in Illinois, ranking among the top 10 prospects. His contribution was crucial in leading his team to an impressive 28-4 record in 2025.
Crossing State Lines: Jeremiah Jackson from Kentucky
Extending their recruitment reach into Kentucky, the Salukis have secured Jeremiah Jackson, a dexterous 6-foot-4 forward from St. Xavier High School in Louisville. Jackson’s track record includes earning All-State honors in 2024-25 and achieving an average of 14.4 points per game. His role as the starting shooting guard was pivotal in leading St. Xavier to a remarkable 31-3 finish, alongside a Sweet Sixteen appearance in the playoffs. The athletic genes seem to run deep, with Jackson’s father having played football at Tennessee before his NFL draft.
Adding Texan Flair: Luke Susko
The third recruit, Luke Susko, brings a Texan dynamism to the roster. At 6-foot-6, this forward from Marcus High School has carved out his niche as a formidable 3-point shooter, ranking among the top 30 players in Texas. His on-court strategies helped Marcus High secure a good 27-9 record during his junior year, earning him first-team honors in District 5-6A.
The Promise of a Bright Future
With these three exceptional players joining the squad for the 2026-27 season, the anticipation surrounding Saluki Basketball is palpable. Coach Nagy’s strategic recruitments reflect not just an investment in the present, but also a vision for a thriving future. Fans and followers eagerly await how these freshmen will mold into the team and steer Southern Illinois towards success on the court.
