College Commitment – Nate Meithof (2021 McNary/Southern Idaho)
The jump to NCAA Division I basketball isn’t always necessarily right out of high school. Nate Meithof can certainly attest to that. It’s been a different path for the rangy 6-foot-5 wing ever since he graduated from McNary in 2021. But through it all, Meithof kept the faith, worked hard, and excelled at every stop, and now he’s headed to the highest level of college hoops having committed to Oregon State.
“I knew as soon as I took the visit,” Meithof said. “The coaches were welcoming and all, and I knew it would be a place I’d be pushed. Also, I chose them because every coach on staff was really involved with the process of recruiting me – it wasn’t just one guy or two, it was the whole staff so I have a good connection and relationship with them. It is just a great opportunity they are giving me as well as a great fit.”
During Meithof’s recent official visit to campus, he liked everything he saw that was available for him both on and off the basketball floor. “I love the facilities and the culture they have and are building,” Meithof said. “The academic advisor seemed really nice and helpful in terms of school so I know I will be taken care of in academics and put in the best position to be successful. And It’s a plus that it isn’t too far from home.”
Meithof chose the Beavers over several other Division I offers, many of which came during this past season for the wing at the College of Southern Idaho. He was the leading scorer on a Golden Eagles team that was ranked #1 in the NJCAA for much of the season, averaging 16.5 points, 5.5 rebounds while shooting over 51 percent from the field, 38 percent from three, and 85 percent from the line.
His stellar 2022-23 campaign came off the heels of a COVID freshman year at Westmont, where he was named conference freshman of the year after leading the league in scoring at 18.6 points. A slashing scorer during his high school days, Meithof’s development unquestionably accelerated these past two seasons on the court as an all-around player.
“Man, my defense is a night and day difference compared to back then,” Meithof said. “My efficiency is much better from everywhere, field goals, three-point field goals, and free throws – I evolved my mid-range game a lot. But other than that I really just took strides in every category.”
Meithof is the second former Oregon prep to make the jump from junior college to Division I this spring, joining Fullerton College standout Kobe Newton (2019 Westview) who previously committed to Wyoming. Our congratulations go out to Meithof and his family on his decision.