Chinook's Oskar Pula to play hoops at Northern

A Hi-Line prep standout is coming to the Montana State University-Northern men's basketball team.

Earlier this week, Northern head coach Shawn Huse announced the signing of Chinook's Oskar Pula to an NAIA national letter of intent. Pula is a 6-5 forward who played four years for the Sugarbeeters.

This past season, Pula was name First-Team All-Conference, finishing third in votes. He averaged 15.6 points per game and 11 rebounds per game on 55 percent shooting this season, helping lead his team to a third-place finish with their consolation win over Box Elder in Districts. At Divisionals, the Sugarbeeters won their first game against Heart Butte, then lost to Roy-Winifred, who went on to win that tournament. Pula's academic plans include majoring in electrical technology while at Northern.

"Oskar is a guy with a lot of potential," Huse said. "I would call it a breakout season for him this past year, and we are excited to have him on board. This opportunity made sense for both of us in a lot of ways. We are a good fit academically for what Oskar wants, and helps give what we always yearn for in terms of young player development. He has a smooth shot, moves well, and can effect things on both ends of the floor with his height and length. He will most likely be a redshirt next season as we look forward to watching his progression and development relative to the college game."

Pula also stood out on the football field in his time at Chinook.

The Lights are coming off another good season, winning 19 games and earning a home playoff game vs Rocky Mountain College. After advancing, their season came to an end in a close loss at Carroll College. They return a great deal of experience from the 2021-22 team, after graduating their two exceptional seniors.