LEAD - One of the goals of young athletes is to take their game to a higher level.

Tanner Adler, a senior at Lead-Deadwood High School, accomplished that goal on Monday.

Adler signed a letter of intent to attend Black Hills State University and play mens basketball for the Yellow Jackets, beginning in the 2009-10 season.

Adler, a varsity player since his freshman year, averaged 22.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, three assists, two steals and 78 percent accuracy from the free throw line last season. Adler was named to the Class A all-state boys basketball team. He was chosen to the all-Black Hills Conference team as a sophomore and junior.

"Since he was a freshman, we knew he had a lot of ability," said Lead-Deadwood coach Curt Shaw. "He had some injuries he battled through. Tanner has worked real hard since he was a freshman. To have him go to a program (BHSU) at that level is very satisfying."

Adler gained valuable experience this summer, playing on the South Dakota Heat AAU basketball team.

"Obviously, Tanner is someone I got to know as a person," said Black Hills State head coach Paul Sather. "He will be a perfect fit for our program. Tanner is a versatile player. He has great size, great athleticism, and is a very talented player. He can score, shoot the 3-pointer and distribute the basketball. We see him as a guard at our level, playing all of the guard positions. He is a good all-around player. His versatility is his best strength."

Adler will join Will John Johnson, of Whitewood, and Luke Enos, of Faith, as West River players on the BHSU roster.

"It's important to recruit local players," said Sather.

Adler will enter his senior season of boys basketball as one of the premier players in the state.

"I got to know the players at Black Hills State," said Adler of his decision to sign with the Yellow Jackets. "The coaches are outgoing. They run a good program. The program is in an upswing."