Josiah Lake II Decides to Stay at Oregon State Amid Transfer Portal Shifts
Oregon State men’s basketball junior guard Josiah Lake II has chosen to remain with the Beavers for the 2026 season, despite a wave of departures through the transfer portal following the conclusion of last year’s campaign. The decision marks a pivotal moment for the program as it rebuilds under new leadership. Lake, a native of Corvallis, has long been a fixture in the community. His father, Josiah Lake Sr., also played for Oregon State from 1998 to 2000 as a walk-on, a legacy that has shaped his own commitment to the program. “Playing at Oregon State has always been my dream since I was a little kid,” Lake stated, reflecting on his journey from a walk-on to a key contributor. “The coaches believed in me, and I wanted to come back to be a vocal leader.” The 2025 season saw significant turnover for Oregon State, with a “lengthy list of departures” as players sought new opportunities. However, Lake’s decision to stay has been praised by assistant coach Roberto Nelson, who highlighted his “high-character” leadership. “Josiah is a true Beaver. He had opportunities to go elsewhere, but it’s a testament to who he is that he wanted to stay,” Nelson said. Over his college career, Lake has steadily improved, with his minutes, scoring output, and field goal percentage all rising each season. While his statistical contributions are evident, his impact on team chemistry is equally significant. As the Beavers work to reload under new coaching staff, Lake’s role as a “glue” player has grown, helping to foster cohesion among returning and incoming athletes. The 2026 season will test Oregon State’s ability to adapt, but Lake’s commitment provides a foundation for the program’s next chapter. His story underscores the resilience of student-athletes navigating the ever-changing landscape of college basketball.
Source: 247 Sports – Josiah Lake Backstory
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