SPRINGFIELD -- Missouri State men's basketball coach Cuonzo Martin has received written commitments from two players for the 2026-27 season with the addition of Amare Oba and Terrence Hayes Jr. during the November signing period.

The tandem represents the Bears' first two formal commitments for next season.

Terrence Hayes Jr., PG/SG, 6-2, 180, Fr., Gary, Ind., 21st Century Charter
  A standout guard at 21st Century Charter in Gary, Ind., Hayes led the Cougars to a 21-7 campaign a year ago while earning Indiana Junior All-Star accolades ... He averaged 20.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 3.4 steals per game as a junior with 46 threes ... He was also a varsity standout as a sophomore at 21st Century, scoring 18.9 points per outing while contributing 6.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 3.8 steals to go with 40 3-pointers ... Played AAU for Indiana Elite Grassroots.

Amare Oba, F, 6-6, 185, Fr., Henderson, Nev., Coronado High School
  In his first season at Coronado High in Henderson, Nev., playing for coach Jeff Kaufman ... As a junior, he averaged 28.2 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game at Basic High School, leading the Wolves in each category ... Was the No. 2 scorer in the state of Nevada for James DiNicola in 2024-25 ... Attended Overtime Elite in 2023-24 ...  Attended the Chris Paul Skills Camp in 2024.

Martin, who is in his second season as Bears head coach since returning the program in 2024, had high praise for his two new additions:

"Terrence Hayes is a quick, talented athlete with the skill to score. He comes from a region of the country where they play with edge, heart and grit. Amare Oba is a high-level high school shooter who is long and athletic. His versatility and upside are impressive. Both guys work to be good defenders and play with a competitive spirit."