Bemidji High Star Austin Riewer Commits to Bemidji State

Austin Riewer formally committed to Bemidji State on December 3, 2025, electing to continue his athletic career in his hometown region. The 6 foot 6 forward is a Bemidji High School senior who played soccer and football this fall in addition to basketball, and his decision to stay local reflects a preference to remain near family and to contribute to the community that developed him.

Riewer arrives at Bemidji State with a multi sport background that coaches say enhances his durability, spatial awareness, and adaptability on the basketball court. His experience across three sports this school year means he brings current competitive conditioning and cross training benefits that are increasingly valued by collegiate programs. Teammates and coaching staff highlighted his work ethic and team oriented mindset as reasons he fits the Beavers program, and the signing continues a pattern of local players moving directly from area high schools to the university.

For Beltrami County the commitment has both symbolic and practical impact. Retaining a hometown athlete for collegiate play can increase local attendance at games, support small business activity on game nights, and bolster youth participation in school sports by providing a visible role model. For Bemidji State the addition of a locally rooted player can deepen community ties that matter for fundraising, student engagement, and the regional recruitment pipeline.

Riewer is one of several local student athletes who have recently signed collegiate commitments, a trend that suggests stronger alignment between area high schools and regional colleges. That alignment can influence how athletic resources are allocated at both the high school and university level, and it can shape coaching priorities around developing versatile athletes who can contribute immediately.

Looking ahead Riewer will join Bemidji State as the program prepares for the coming seasons, and his presence will be watched closely by local fans who track both athletic success and community cohesion. His choice to stay in the area underscores a broader pattern in Beltrami County of local talent opting to invest in local institutions, with potential benefits for civic pride and for the local economy tied to college athletics.