LAS CRUCES, N.M. - Head Coach Jason Hooten continues to strengthen NM State's 2026-27 roster with the addition of forward Mark Lavrenov, who arrives in Las Cruces following a breakout freshman campaign at Sacramento State.
Mark Lavrenov | So. | F | 6-8 | Rocklin, Calif. | Rocklin HS | Sacramento State
Lavrenov made an immediate impact during his first collegiate season, appearing in all 31 games while making 21 starts as a true freshman. He averaged 9.9 points, 7.0 rebounds and 25.9 minutes per game while shooting 45% from the field and 82% from the free throw line. His 4.4 free throw attempts per game reflected his aggressive style of play around the basket.
One of the top rebounders in the Big Sky Conference, Lavrenov ranked third in the league in overall rebounding at 7.0 boards per game and second in conference-only games at 7.7 rebounds per contest. He also averaged 2.6 offensive rebounds per game, which ranked third in the conference. His top rebounding effort came in a dominant 17-point, 17-rebound double-double victory over Northern Colorado, with the 17 boards tying for the third-most in a single game during Sacramento State's Division I era.
Lavrenov recorded 14 double-figure scoring performances and posted double-digit rebounds eight times during the season. His six double-doubles ranked second best on the team.
As the season progressed, Lavrenov elevated his game significantly, starting each of the final 15 contests while producing his top eight scoring performances over that stretch. In Big Sky play, he increased his averages to 12.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 30.0 minutes per game, reaching double figures in scoring 11 times during conference action. He also posted his first collegiate double-double on the road at UCLA with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Before beginning his collegiate career, Lavrenov built one of the most decorated prep careers in Northern California at Rocklin High School. A four-year varsity starter, he finished with 2,177 career points and became the school's all-time leading scorer and rebounder.
Lavrenov earned First Team All-Sierra Foothill League honors in each season of his career, was a two-time first team all-section selection and claimed league Player of the Year honors in both 2024 and 2025. He was also ranked as the top power forward and No. 12 overall recruit in Northern California by Prep Hoops.
During a remarkable senior season, Lavrenov was named First Team All-State, Sacramento Bee Player of the Year and Sierra Foothill League MVP after averaging 23.4 points and 12.2 rebounds per game while shooting 52% from the field and 40% from three-point range. He totaled 23 double-doubles, three 30-point games and one 40-point outing while setting Rocklin's single-season scoring record with 654 points. He also helped guide the Thunder to a CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Championship, the program's first since 2009.
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