EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE men's basketball Head Coach Brian Barone has rounded out his early signings for 2026-27 with the addition of Jayden Riley (Oswego, Illinois).

Riley is a 6-foot, 2-inch,165-pound guard who comes to SIUE from Yorkville Christian high school in suburban Chicago.

"Jayden will fit in our program extremely well because his style of play is all about making other teammates better," Barone said. "He can score the ball but possesses the skill set which allows his teammates to have success because of the way he distributes the basketball.

Riley averaged 23 points, 4.5 rebounds and 8.5 assists as a junior at Yorkville. He was chosen as the Record Newspapers Player of the Year.

"I committed to SIUE because of the family environment and the coaching staff," Riley said. "When I went on my visit, it just felt like home, especially when I walked in the arena. They are building something special, and I want to be part of what they are building." 

"Jayden thrives on team basketball," Barone added. "He is regarded as one of the best point guards in the country and will fit our team chemistry the right way."

Riley is the fourth addition to the Cougars during the early signing period, joining David Wilson (Norman, Oklahoma), Dorea "Kain" McCaskill (St. Louis) and Brennan Miller (Indianapolis) who were previously announced.

SIUE is 4-3 to start the season. The Cougars will play host to Missouri Baptist Friday afternoon at First Community Arena.