MSU-Northern Men's Basketball has recently added to their roster, 6'4" forward Shay Brannon of Eatonville, WA. He is coming off a tremendous career at Centralia College (WA), where he averaged 11 points per game on 53% shooting from the floor.  He also garnered 6.8 rebounds and 1 steal per game and helped lead the 'Trailblazers' to a remarkable year. For his efforts at Centralia, he earned NWAC Player of the Week honors, and was named West All-Region Honorable Mention.
 
Speaking on behalf of Shay, Head Centralia Coach Joseph Chirhart says, "I could not be more proud of Shay! The kid has worked his tail off to earn this opportunity to continue his academic and athletic career at MSUN! While at Centralia, he has helped not only change the culture but helped elevate the program in ways nobody else could! After a combined 9 wins in the previous 2 years, Shay helped lead us this season to a 19-12 overall record, the 1st NWAC Tournament bid in 8yrs, and an Elite 8 Appearance. Shay is one of the most athletic kids, if not the most athletic kid, in any gym he walks into, and I am so excited to follow his journey. MSUN definitely found a gem in Shay Brannon!"
 
A versatile competitor on both ends of the floor, Shay has the capability to bolster the Lights depth and production and then some. Says Head Coach Shawn Huse, "Shay is a tough, active defender, and is someone who can make a lot of plays offensively with his explosiveness on the floor. He possesses a great deal of twitch with his athleticism, and can guard and play multiple positions. The depth that Shay adds is vital if we want to experience more serious success. Especially going up, week after week, against the competition we face in non-conference games, our League play, and if we want to advance well into the postseason. Not to mention, he has a team-first mindset and is another high character guy who fits in great with our group of quality returners and newcomers. He brings positive energy each and every day, further increasing our team's potential moving forward."
 
Shay's academic plan aligns well at MSU-Northern as he be studying in their very strong college of technical sciences, working towards his Trades Management & Electrical Technology degrees.
 
The Lights are coming off a very good season. One that saw them win 18 games, reach the conference championship game, and narrowly miss a trip to the NAIA National Tournament. They graduate one starter and two reserves, yet return a talented accomplished group filled with experience and firepower for the 2026-27 campaign.