River, an unsigned senior out of Colorado, was a fan favorite running with RWE in his home state this past weekend. His main role was a spot up shooter, connecting on looks from well beyond the three-point line in each game. Sawyer played his role strongly and will be a great late addition for a Division 2 or Division 3 program.

River Sawyer River Sawyer 6'3" | SG University | 2026 State CO was big time this season and put the state on notice as he helped get University all the way to the state championship and even had one of his biggest games of the year in the state championship. Rivers finished up the year with 18.7 points, 4.5 rebound and 2.1 steals a game. When watching him, the thing that stands out is that he just seems to always be doing something impactful. He’s a high-IQ guard who reads the defense, is always probing, and is a three-level scorer. Sawyer was a big-time scorer who only did not score in double figures in one game. He was the team’s captain and emotional leader on the floor and was a player who turned many heads since returning to the state. Not only is he making his rankings debut, but he will be high in the rankings from what we saw from him. Big year for him. 

River Sawyer River Sawyer 6'3" | SG University | 2026 State CO is at the crux of University’s success, playing a pivotal 2-way role that has led University to the championship game in the first place. At 6’3, Sawyer added 26 points, 8 defensive rebounds, 2 assists, a steal, and a block to the box score to keep the Bulldogs close to the Sun Devils. While his efficiency was up and down throughout the game, Sawyer never stopped letting it fly, showcasing how badly he wants to win and succeed. Hooping alongside John Elbe John Elbe 6'5" | PF/SF University | 2026 State CO , the two seniors paired up to be a dynamic duo this season. Bigger things are in store for Sawyer’s future.

Sawyer delivered a strong performance for University, finishing with 19 points and helping lead a balanced offensive effort as one of three players to score in double figures in a tightly contested matchup. He showcased his ability as a true three level scorer, attacking the basket, knocking down mid range shots, and hitting big threes when his team needed them. Sawyer’s confidence on the offensive end kept the defense on its heels throughout the game. He also made an impact defensively, playing tough, physical defense and competing on every possession. His all around effort and timely scoring were key factors in helping University stay in control during a hard fought game

University may look like the Cinderella story in the tournament as they’re the No.10 seed vs. the No.2 seed, but with the way that River Sawyer River Sawyer 6'3" | SG University | 2026 State CO has been playing, University has a real chance at completing the upset. He’s been a two-way force who lights it up. He’s averaging 18.3 points on the season. He goes down and battles with the bigs on the boards and has lit it up from deep as well. He fills it up in every way. Sawyer pulled off the upset vs. Eaton in their Sweet 16 matchup when he finished with 24 points. He knocked down 4 3-pointers, got to the FT line, and had 7 boards as well. He’s a player that not many know about across the state, but all scouting reports from teams that face him have him as the agenda. I expect another big game for him and for University to have a chance because of him. Big opportunity for him as he jumps onto many more radars. He’s big time. 

Sawyer is another prospect who has been overlooked. That University squad has been getting a bit more attention this year as they sit at 12-4 and are battling for 1st place in their conference. Their best player is 6’3 guard, Sawyer, and he’s been a stat-stuffing machine. Sawyer is averaging 19.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on the year. He’s shooting nearly 40% from beyond the arc, has put up double figures in every single game this year, and has been their best on-ball defender as well at 2.5 steals a game. He’s not a player we’ve written about, which is wild because he’s been one of the conference’s best weapons. Sawyer should be on more radars and has been on a tear. Solid year for him.