SAN MARCOS, Texas – Texas State men's basketball head coach Terrence Johnson announced the signing of two junior college transfers during the early signing period. Joining the Bobcats next fall will be Nate Deer and Mark Drone.
 
"This is an important class for us. We feel as though we've addressed two major needs in this early signing period with extraordinary players and high character people," said Johnson. "We are excited to have these guys join our program. The Bobcats got better today!"
 
Nate Deer | Forward | Adelaide, Australia | Howard College
Deer will arrive in San Marcos after playing two years at Howard College. So far this season, is averaging 9.7 points and 6.1 rebounds per game over nine contests. The Australian has made 41-of-65 (63.1%) of his shot attempts this year.
 
Last season, Deer was limited to 13 games off the bench where he shot 68.2% (15-of-22) from the field while grabbing 1.7 rpg.
 
Johnson on Deer: "Nate brings a level of athleticism, toughness and skill that we definitely need. His motor never turns off and he impacts winning in a multitude of ways. We're expecting him to be a force in our front court, as well as raise our level of skill and toughness at the position."
 
Mark Drone | Guard | Jackson, Miss. | Southwest Mississippi CC
Drone currently plays for Southwest Mississippi Community College before joining the Bobcats next season. In seven games this year, he is putting up 19.6 ppg with four 20-poitn contests while shooting 56.8% (46-81) form the field, 32.0% (8-25) on three-pointers and 90.2% (37-41) at the free throw line. The future Texas State player is also averaging 5.3 apg, 3.8 rpg and 2.9 spg.
 
In 2022-23, Drone led the Bears with 16.4 ppg and 4.2 apg while sharing the team leading in 1.7 spg over 27 contests. His performance earned him All-MACCC Second Team honors.
 
Drone graduated from Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi. During his prep career, he was named the Offensive Player of the Year and earned All-Jackson Public Schools First Team honors.
 
Johnson on Drone: "Mark is a dynamic point guard that is comfortable on and off the ball. His ability to score and create scoring opportunities for himself and others makes him a perfect fit. We love his strength and athleticism! I believe he will be a good player in this league and his style of play will generate a level of excitement for our fanbase."
 
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