Nov. 11, 2004

SAULT STE. MARIE - The Lake Superior State men's basketball team has received commitments from 6-8, 210-pound forward Mike Rader of Wayland and 6-8, 245-pound center Nathan Parker of Negaunee during the NCAA's fall signing period.

Rader averaged 15 points and eight rebounds per game for the 6-15 Wildcats last season. He earned first-team honors in the OK Gold Conference and on the All-Allegan County Team.

"Mike is the type of player who can have an immediate impact on our program and the entire league," LSSU coach Mike Fitzner said. "His versatility, size, athletic ability and desire to succeed give him the chance to be a very special player. We look forward to Mike having a great year with his current coach, Mike Hudson, and joining us next year."

Parker averaged 10 points, 11.5 rebounds and seven blocked shots per game as a junior at Negaunee in 2003-04. He compiled 20 or more rebounds in at least three games last season.

"Nate's best basketball is certainly ahead of him," Fitzner said. "Coach Tom Russo has done a wonderful job developing his talent and skills. We feel Nate will eventually be able to impact games with his shot blocking and rebounding abilities."

Rader plans to major in criminal justice, while Parker will pursue an engineering degree.

"Both of these young men come from wonderful families with great values," Fitzner added. "They fit in very well with our team and are committed to success on and off the floor."