Redhawks Cap Off Offseason Landing Former WCC-All Freshman Selection Tomas Thrastarson
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Washington State Cougars guard Tomas Thrastarson (5) grabs the inbounds pass against the San Francisco Dons in the second half at Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images [/caption]
Keeping a talented guard in the state of Washington, the Seattle U Redhawks men's basketball team announced the addition of junior Tómas Thrastarson on Monday.
Thrastarson comes to Seattle after spending his first two seasons across the state with Washington State in Pullman. A 6-foot-7 shooting guard, he thrives getting to the basket as a driver. His scoring upside comes from his long frame that allows him to draw and play through contact as he gets into the paint.
“Tómas is a versatile guard with great size and experience competing at a high level,” said head coach Chris Victor. “His success in the WCC, combined with his international experience representing Iceland, gives him a strong foundation to make an immediate impact in our program. He has the ability to affect the game in a variety of ways and we're excited to welcome him to Seattle.”
At the start of his freshman season with Washington State, Cougars head coach David Riley did not expect Thrastarson to play, planning for him to redshirt. But just 10 games into the season, future lottery pick Cedric Coward, Isaiah Watts, and Rihards Vavers all suffered injuries, forcing the youngster into the lineup. He started 10 games replacing Watts and remained a staple in the rotation even after Watts returned, continuing to see extensive playing time off the bench.
Thrastarson finished his freshman season averaging 4.5 points and 3.1 rebounds on 57% shooting from the field, earning WCC All-Freshman team recognition.
While Washington State experienced plenty of turnover going into Riley’s second season, Thrastarson did not enter the portal that offseason and seemed poised for a breakout his sophomore year. He got the start against Idaho in WSU’s home opener and finished the game with 17 points., getting off to a quick start.
But just five games into the season, Thrastarson suffered a foot injury. While he only missed one game initially as a result, he played at well below 100% after his quick return and eventually suffered a setback that caused him to miss much of WCC play.
When he finally returned for the final five games, Thrastarson only played 18 minutes per game for the Cougars. He finished the season appearing in 19 games and averaged 8.8 points and 4.1 rebounds, posting improved numbers despite the injury costing him a large chunk of the season.
Joining several former teammates seeking a new school, Thrastarson entered the portal in late March and now finds himself in the Emerald City with two years of eligibility remaining. After a string of bad luck derailed his sophomore season with WSU, the former WCC-All Freshman pick is primed to make a name for himself on a Seattle roster that has a handful of newcomers in the backcourt and should have a solid chance to start for the Redhawks.
