FARMINGTON, Utah — Idaho State men's basketball redshirt-sophomore center Evan Otten has been named to the Big Sky All-Defensive Team, the conference announced on Friday afternoon. The honor marks the first postseason accolade of Otten's career after another standout defensive season for the Bengals.
Otten anchored Idaho State's interior defense throughout the 2025-26 season, finishing first in the Big Sky Conference in total blocks and blocks per game for the second consecutive year. His rim protection helped define the Bengals' defensive identity all season long.
The junior appeared in 31 games, averaging 4.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game while shooting 52.4 percent from the field. Otten recorded 56 total blocks, averaging 1.8 blocks per game, which ranked 32nd nationally in total blocks and 36th in blocks per game in the NCAA this season.
Otten consistently altered opposing offenses with his presence in the paint. He posted multiple four block-games this season, and finished the year as one of the conference's most disruptive defensive players.
In addition to his shot-blocking, Otten contributed on the glass and provided efficient scoring around the rim. His 117 total rebounds ranked among the Bengals' top contributors in the frontcourt, while his defensive timing and positioning made him a constant deterrent near the basket.
Otten becomes the latest Bengal to earn postseason recognition from the Big Sky Conference, highlighting Idaho State's continued defensive presence in league play.
