Owen Larson has swiftly emerged as one of the most promising young guards in collegiate basketball, captivating audiences with his court vision, scoring ability, and unwavering determination. A product of Estherville, Iowa, Larson’s journey from a record-setting high school phenom to a Division I college athlete represents a story of talent, hard work, and a deep-rooted passion for the game. In an era where college basketball is constantly evolving, Larson stands out not just for his stats, but for his basketball IQ, leadership qualities, and the competitive fire that he brings to the court every single night. As he continues to develop his game at the collegiate level, he is quickly becoming a name to watch in the landscape of NCAA men’s basketball, carrying with him the hopes of his hometown and the expectations of a program eager to see him flourish.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Owen Larson |
| Age | 19-20 years old (estimated, based on freshman year 2024-25) |
| Profession | College Basketball Player (Guard) |
| Parents | Troy Larson (father) |
| Siblings | Will Larson (brother) |
| Birthplace | Estherville, Iowa |
| Net Worth | N/A (College Athlete – NIL valuation not publicly available) |
| High School | Estherville-Lincoln Central High School |
| College | South Dakota State University (Freshman), Drake University (Sophomore) |
| Not publicly available | |
| Twitter (X) | Not publicly available |
An Iowa Basketball Prodigy Takes Shape
To understand Owen Larson the college athlete, one must first appreciate Owen Larson the Iowa high school legend. Hailing from the small town of Estherville in the northwest corner of the state, Larson grew up in an environment where basketball is more than just a sport—it is a way of life. The son of Troy Larson, who spent six years as an assistant coach at South Dakota State University in the 2000s , Owen was literally raised in the gym. His father’s coaching career gave him an early and deep understanding of the game’s intricacies. It was a childhood spent learning the nuances of offensive sets, defensive rotations, and the mental toughness required to succeed at a high level. This wasn’t just a hobby; it was a family tradition waiting to be continued by the next generation.
Larson’s high school career at Estherville Lincoln Central High School is the stuff of local legend. During his senior year, he was crowned the 2024 Iowa Class 2A Boys Basketball Player of the Year—a testament to his dominance on the court . That season, he put up staggering numbers, averaging 27.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game . However, his impact wasn’t limited to a single season. He was a back-to-back First Team All-State selection and finished his career as the school’s all-time leading scorer, accumulating nearly 2,000 points and setting 12 school records along the way . But Larson wasn’t a one-dimensional scorer. His ability to facilitate offense, grabbing rebounds and dishing out assists, highlighted his all-around game and unselfish mentality. He led his team to a conference title in 2024, showcasing the leadership skills that would become a hallmark of his play. Beyond basketball, he was a standout three-sport athlete, excelling as a quarterback and defensive back in football and earning all-state honors in baseball , proving that his athleticism translated across multiple disciplines.
The Collegiate Transition and Rise to Prominence
After a decorated high school career, Larson took his talents to South Dakota State University, following a path that had a family connection. His father’s previous tenure as an assistant coach at the school added a layer of familiarity and pride to his decision to become a Jackrabbit . The transition from high school star to Division I college athlete is a significant leap, but Larson was ready. In his freshman year (2024-25), he immediately made an impact, starting in every game he played . As a 6’2″, 195-pound guard , he was tasked with running the offense, and he responded with poise beyond his years. He averaged 8.2 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, shooting 35.4% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range .
Despite being a freshman, Larson quickly proved he could perform on a big stage. He scored in double figures in several key games, including a 14-point performance against McNeese State and a 12-point outing against Denver . While his shooting efficiency fluctuated, as it often does for young players adjusting to the speed and physicality of the college game, his value on the court was undeniable. He was a steadying presence for the Jackrabbits, contributing in multiple facets of the game. During that freshman season, he ranked among the Summit League leaders in several statistical categories, including rebounding, assists, and three-point field goals made . However, after one season, Larson made the decision to transfer, moving to Drake University for the 2025-26 season .
At Drake, Larson continued to evolve. He maintained his starting role and saw his scoring average increase to 10.0 points per game . His assist numbers also improved to 2.8 per game, showing that he was becoming an even more integral part of his team’s offensive scheme . While his three-point percentage dipped slightly as he adjusted to a new system, his free throw shooting remained a strength, hovering near 87%, indicating his value as a clutch shooter . The move to Drake proved to be a critical step in his development, allowing him to showcase his skills in a new conference and against even tougher competition.
Behind the Player: The Person, the Potential, and the Future
Off the court, Owen Larson is described as a dedicated student of the game. He was a member of the A Honor Roll throughout high school, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence that balanced his athletic pursuits . At South Dakota State, he planned to major in business , suggesting a future focused on building a career both on and off the hardwood. Despite his success, he remains grounded, a quality instilled by his upbringing in a small, tight-knit community like Estherville. His brother, Will, was a member of the Stephen F. Austin baseball team , further indicating that athletic excellence runs deep in the Larson household.
In the modern landscape of college athletics, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have become a major part of the student-athlete experience. While Owen Larson doesn’t have the massive, publicly-known NIL deals of some of his peers, his profile as a high-performing player in a competitive conference makes him a prime candidate for local and regional endorsements. His net worth, like most college athletes, is not a fixed public number, but his value is tied to his growing potential as a basketball player. As he continues to log significant minutes and put up impressive numbers at Drake, his visibility will only increase, providing him with more opportunities to leverage his athletic success into brand partnerships and sponsorships.
Looking ahead, the future is incredibly bright for Owen Larson. He is part of a new generation of college athletes who are honing their craft with the goal of reaching the professional ranks. With two full seasons of college basketball under his belt and still plenty of eligibility remaining, he has ample time to refine his game, add muscle to his frame, and become an even more dynamic playmaker. His ability to shoot from the perimeter, combined with his rebounding tenacity and playmaking skills, makes him a prototype for the modern college guard. Whether he follows the path to the NBA or embarks on a professional career overseas, his work ethic, basketball IQ, and competitive spirit will be his greatest assets. For basketball fans and scouts alike, Owen Larson is not just a player to watch; he is a developing star whose journey is just beginning.
Conclusion
Owen Larson’s story is a compelling reminder that greatness is often forged in the small gyms of America’s heartland. From a record-breaking high school career in Estherville, Iowa, to a promising start at the Division I level, he represents the epitome of hard work, passion, and dedication. His journey underscores the importance of resilience, of adapting to new challenges, and of carrying the lessons of one’s community onto a bigger stage. As Owen Larson continues to pave the way for future generations of Iowa basketball talent, his story stands as a powerful reminder of how resilience, family support, and purpose can shape a meaningful legacy both on and off the court.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Owen Larson?
Owen Larson is a collegiate basketball player who currently plays as a guard for the Drake Bulldogs . He was previously a standout player for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits .
Where is Owen Larson from?
Owen Larson hails from Estherville, Iowa . He attended and played for Estherville Lincoln Central High School .
How tall is Owen Larson?
Owen Larson is listed at 6 feet 2 inches tall (1.88 meters) .
What position does Owen Larson play?
He plays the guard position . He is known for his scoring ability, court vision, and rebounding.
What were Owen Larson’s high school stats and accolades?
Larson was a prolific scorer in high school. He averaged 27.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game as a senior . He was the 2024 Iowa Class 2A Player of the Year, a two-time First Team All-State selection, and holds the record for most points scored in Estherville Lincoln Central High School history .
Who is Owen Larson’s father?
His father, Troy Larson, was an assistant coach at South Dakota State University in the 2000s . This connection influenced Owen’s decision to start his college career at SDSU.
