MOSES LAKE — After months of recruiting and speculation, Moses Lake Christian Academy (MLCA) senior basketball player Riggs Yarbro has decided to take his skills on the hardwood to the University of Puget Sound (UPS).

Yarbro, who was named the 1B boys Player of the Year by the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association this season, will play basketball for the Loggers after accepting an academic scholarship from UPS. UPS does not award athletic scholarships.

Yarbro said his is anxious for the chance to suit up for the Loggers.

“I am very excited for next year,” he said. “I am glad to have direction and for the opportunity to play for a good college.”

After being recruited to play basketball by several colleges, Yarbro ultimately said UPS was the school for him.

“The community and environment, the academic success and the athletic success were all important to me,” he said. “Puget Sound met all three criteria.”

Yarbro is coming off of a stellar senior season in which he helped lead the MLCA Lions to second-place at the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association 1B state tournament — the school’s best-ever finish.

Yarbro will suit up for Justin Lunt who is in his third season at UPS and Yarbro said Lunt’s coaching philosophy played a significant role in deciding to play basketball for the Loggers.

“They are intense coaches. I like playing for intense programs,” Yarbro said. “The (coaches) have a good knowledge of the game. They want to build a real relationship with me.”

With the recruitment process over, Yarbro is satisfied with his decision to play for the Loggers.

“It gives me a sense of security for next year,” he said of his decision. “I am excited.”