DEKALB, Ill. – Northern Illinois University men's basketball head coach Matt Majkrzak announced the signing of Izaya Larthridge (Grand Rapids, Mich./Catholic Central) to join the Huskie men's basketball program for the 2026-27 season. Larthridge becomes the 10th signee for the NIU for the upcoming season. 

"Izaya was on track to being a high level D1 prospect and suffered a poorly timed injury heading into July of his 17U AAU season," said Majkrzak. "He took a chance on us at NMU, hoping we could help him get back to the D1 level. That occurred quicker than we all thought. He's the perfect modern wing who shoots efficiently from three on high volume, uses his big frame to get to the rim and is an excellent defender and rebounder. He understands spacing and plays the perfect mix of unselfishness and being a threat. We are so happy this worked out and we get to have him in red and black."

Larthridge missed his senior high school season due to injury but helped lead Grand Rapids Catholic Central to the state semifinals as a junior in 2024-25. The 6-foot-6 Larthridge averaged 16.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game that year, while earning all-state honors from the Basketball Coaches Association of Michigan (BCAM).

Fans can make deposits for season tickets for the first season of the Matt Majkrzak era online at NIUHuskies.com/tickets, by contacting the NIU Ticket Office at 815-753-PACK (7225) weekdays between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. or via email at huskiestickets@niu.edu.

The Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund supports Huskie student-athletes with a forward-thinking approach designed to strengthen competitiveness, elevate the student-athlete experience, and secure a successful future for NIU Athletic programs. For more information or to contribute to the Boneyard Competitive Excellence Fund, please contact the Huskies Athletic Fund at 815-753-1923 or huskieathleticfund@niu.edu.