Jamestown defenseman West makes NCAA DI commitment

The Jamestown Rebels of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that defenseman Owen West has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for Michigan State University in the B1G beginning in the 2023 season.

West, 17, who is the brother of former Rebels goaltender Noah West and current teammate Evan West, has been highly sought-after by numerous schools, but took the ‘when you know, you know’ approach when deciding on his collegiate commitment.

“I had a gut feeling,” said West when asked why he chose Michigan State. “After my visit, I realized it was going to be a very good fit for me. I love everything about their campus and their program.”

A 5’11/179 lbs. native of Pittsboro, IN, West is currently in his first year with Rebels, where he’s registered three goals along with an assist for four points in 12 games thus far in his rookie campaign.

Prior to joining Jamestown, West spent his past four seasons of hockey at the AAA level, most recently with the 16U Detriot HoneyBaked program, where he compiled 7 goals and 17 assists (24 points) in 35 games during the 2020-21 season. West also got his feet wet last year with brief stints with both the Omaha Lancers of the USHL, and the U.S. National U17 Team.

The future is bright for West, says Rebels Head Coach Joe Coombs. “Owen is a great young player with loads of potential,” said Coombs. “I could not be happier for him and his family with his decision, but his work is just beginning. We’re excited to be a part of his journey.”

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list