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CITY (VCSU) – Williston High School standout Jayden Ferguson has committed to attend Valley City State and play basketball for the Vikings starting in the fall of 2014. 

Ferguson, a 6-foot-5 forward, averaged 17.3 points and 9.6 rebounds per game last season for the Williston Coyotes. He signed a Letter of Intent on Monday, choosing to continue his basketball career at Valley City State.

“It’s exciting to have Jayden join our program,” said VCSU head coach Jeff Kaminsky. “He will be a great addition. I admire his work ethic and approach to the game. He communicates well and will be a great teammate. Jayden’s ability to rebound and the versatility he has on both ends of the court will make him a great fit in our program.”

 As a junior last year, Ferguson was named to the All WDA Team. He posted a season-best

28 points and 20 rebounds in a dominating performance as he led the Coyotes to a 66-59 win over Turtle Mountain on Jan. 26. At Williston, Ferguson plays under head coach Mark Slotsve, who says his drive makes him a great fit for VCSU.

 “Jayden has been an integral part of the Williston basketball program the last couple seasons,” said Slotsve. “He has been the leader in every statistical category as well as our emotional leader. Jayden plays with a high motor and has spent countless hours on improving his game. That motivation and inner drive will make him a great player for the Vikings.”

 Ferguson begins his senior season at Williston High on Tuesday, Dec. 10, when the Coyotes go on the road to Sidney, Mont. He is the son of Greg and Bobbi Svihl, and Guy and Mandy Ferguson. 

 Valley City State is coming off an appearance at the NAIA National Tournament last season, and have won 20-plus games in four of the past six seasons under head coach Jeff Kaminsky. The Vikings begin play this season in the new North Star Athletic Association, which features VCSU, Mayville State, University of Jamestown, Dakota State and Presentation College. Dickinson State is set to join the conference next season.