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Granada Hills senior Rafayel Masumyan has committed to continue his basketball career at the University of Evansville, where he is expected to join the men’s basketball program after graduation.
High season and recognition
The 6-foot-7 guard recently finished his senior season at Granada Hills. During the season, he received several local honors, including Division I City Player of the Year, First Team All-City and First Team West Valley recognition.
Masumyan’s game has featured rebounding, defensive and transition scoring contributions throughout his high school career. He has also attended basketball exhibitions and other competitive events during the recruiting process.
Navigating the recruitment process
His commitment comes during a period in which many NCAA Division I basketball programs have increasingly used the transfer portal to add experienced players to their rosters, creating a recruiting environment that differs from previous years for high school prospects.
During his freshman season, Masumyan trained with the Blueprint Project, a basketball training organization based in Los Angeles. According to the organization, the program provided recruiting training and support as he explored college options.
University of Evansville assistant coach Sammy Dowd said the program looks forward to welcoming Masumyan to campus.
“We look forward to Raf joining the program and continuing to develop his game,” said Dowd. “We think he has tools that could translate well as he adjusts to the Division I level.”
Looking ahead to Division I basketball
In addition to his high school basketball experience, Masumyan has represented Armenia in international basketball competitions.
Like many future college athletes, he will face the transition from high school to Division I basketball, including adjustments to collegiate practice schedules, team systems, academic responsibilities and competition for playing time.
Masumyan is among a number of student-athletes who have used private training programs while pursuing opportunities to continue their basketball careers at the collegiate level.
His commitment to the University of Evansville marks the next step in his basketball career as he prepares to compete at the NCAA Division I level.
