College Commitment – Andwele Bridges (2026 Forest Grove)

Another senior is off the board. One of 6A's top leading scorers the past two seasons, Andwele Bridges Andwele Bridges 6'0" | PG/SG Forest Grove | 2026 State OR had a number of schools both near and far looking to add him to their roster. But when it came down to things, it was all about fit both on and off the basketball floor and this week Forest Grove's all-time leading scorer decided that his college basketball playing career would be at Whitworth.

"I decided Whitworth was the right place because the coaches showed interest early, and I got to know them well before visiting," Bridges said. "On my visit, I hung around with the players, and the team was really close and connected even outside of Basketball. I got to watch multiple practices and they were really focused, the coaches are detail oriented, and they hold everyone to high standards. I also like that the program has a history of success and clear goals."

Bridges liked the culture with the Pirates program but also liked how his game would fit in how head coach Damion Jablonski likes his team to play. "They emphasize getting paint touches offensively, so I feel like my ability to get by defenders and attack downhill will translate," Bridges said. "On defense they play mostly man to man, at Forest Grove we played a lot of zone, so I'll need to continue improving my on ball defense and help positioning."

A First Team Pacific Conference honoree the past two seasons who averaged 21.7 points, .4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists this past season for Forest Grove, Bridges won't be the only Viking headed to Spokane as teammate Kasen Lariz Kasen Lariz 6'5" | SF/SG Forest Grove | 2026 State OR also recently announced his decision to attend Whitworth. He notes that while both players made decisions best for themselves, there's no question he's looking forward to playing with Lariz some more in college. In fact, while Bridges finished his high school with so many accomplishments, accolades, and was a part of plenty of wins it's actually something else he'll look back upon the most.

"I'm going to remember the relationships I've built," Bridges said. "I met some of my best friends through the game, so the memories we made on and off the court will definitely stick with me."

Our congratulations go out to Bridges and his family on his decision.