Wisconsin Lutheran senior Zavier Zens sent shockwaves across the high school recruiting landscape March 30 as he announced he would be requesting his release from his National Letter of Intent with Northern Iowa following a coaching change.
The request was granted and puts the 2026 Mr. Basketball award winner back on the open market just ahead of the opening of the NCAA Division I men’s basketball transfer portal window.
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Here is what to know about his ongoing recruitment.
Badgers among programs on short list that have reached out
In an interview with 247 Sports posted April 1, Zens said Wisconsin is among a short list of teams that had been in contact over the roughly 24 hours since his recruitment reopened. Zens took an unofficial visit to Wisconsin last summer and said the coaching staff has been in contact with him and his family. Other schools that have reached out that Zens has named include Illinois, Colorado State and St. Louis.
Joining departed coach from Northern Iowa on the table
Ben Jacobson, whose departure from Northern Iowa to Utah State spurred the NLI release request from Zens, has also been in contact to retain Zens at his new program. The 6-foot-7 senior told 247 he remains interested in the fit he initially found with Jacobson’s staff, putting Utah State firmly among the contenders for his services as well.
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What timeframe can we expect a Zens decision?
The NCAA DI transfer portal window for men’s basketball opens April 7 and closes April 21. While that does not directly impact Zens’ timeframe to make his decision, it will impact the availability of roster spots as programs across the nation finalize their 2026-27 rosters. It may also lead to programs imposing deadlines on Zens for a decision that would still allow them to adjust their portal strategy accordingly. Schools may also choose to prioritize portal talent before working their way back to high school recruits. Zens told 247 he is aware of the portal window, but will still be looking for a decision that is comfortable for him.
Wisconsin Lutheran coach Ryan Walz told the Journal Sentinel “there is nothing to report” as of the afternoon of March 31 with regard to Zens’ future home.
“They are going to gather as much information as possible before making any kind of decision,” Walz added.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Lutheran’s Zavier Zens considers college basketball options
