REPORT: In-state 2026 forward requests NLI release with Northern Iowa
Wisconsin power forward Zavier Zens requested his NLI release Monday from the University of Northern Iowa, per a report from 247Sports’ Nick Osen.
Wisconsin instate power forward Zavier Zens has requested his NLI release from the University of Northern Iowa, according to a report from 247Sports’ Nick Osen. The news arrived hours after former Northern Iowa head coach Ben Jacobson took the head coaching job at Utah State University. Zens, who chose the Panthers over offers from Colorado State , Bradley, Buffalo, Drake, UW-Green Bay, Illinois State, Miami (Ohio), St.
Thomas, Toledo and Wyoming back in August, has now reportedly requested approval to break his National Letter of Intent agreement. Zens' reported move may now invite NCAA Division I programs to offer the class of 2026 standout. Iowa , Northwestern, Nebraska , Notre Dame and Wisconsin showed interest prior to his commitment to Northern Iowa, but they did not extend offers in 2025.
Breaking: Wisco Lutheran star/ Mr. Basketball winner Zavier Zens has requested his NLI release from UNI, after a coaching change with Ben Jacobson, sources tell @247Sports Look for high major interests here pic. twitter.
com/MLiLIRAVPa — Nick Osen (@TheRealNickOsen) March 31, 2026 As a senior at Wisconsin Lutheran High School, Zens was named 2026 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball en route to his group's third consecutive WIAA Division I Boys Basketball Championship. Wisconsin Lutheran amassed a perfect 30-0 record during the 2025-26 slate with Zens at the helm.