College Commitment – Lucas Labounty (2026 Thurston)

Throughout the recruiting process, Jacob Labounty stayed patient. The efficient 6-foot-5 swingman from Thurston High School knew his game and resume would speak for itself to help him find the right fit at the college level and in the end that rang true. Labounty will be starting his college career at the D-II level and he'll be doing so at Western Colorado.

Labounty made his decision after making a trip to campus. "I liked the small town community and how it's primarily focused on academics and hoops," Labounty said. "The coaching staff was very welcoming as well."

Labounty had been looking at a number of options before Western Colorado became the clear favorite. He knows playing in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference is a big step up in competition and he's ready to get going right away. "I've got to work for my spot and prove myself for sure at the four-year level," Labounty said. "(I'll be) coming in as a two-guard so I'm working on getting stronger to finish through contact, as well as getting the tightest handle possible as a true guard."

The commitment caps off a banner senior season - and high school career for Labounty. In addition to earning First Team 5A All-State honors and finishing as Thurston's all-time leading career scorer, he helped the Colts reach the state tournament this past season where they came home with a fourth place trophy. The memories are numerous. "Road trips and staying in hotels in tournament for sure," Labounty said. "You forget about the wins and losses when you enjoy time with your teammates."

Our congratulations go out to Labounty and his family on his commitment.