Portland State men's basketball coach Ken Bone has announced the signing of Jason Conrad to a National Letter of Intent for the 2008-09 academic year. Conrad is a senior center at Gilroy High School in Gilroy, CA.

"In college basketball you are always looking for a post that can help you every year," said Bone. "I think we've got a real good one in Jason, just like Portland State got a few years back with (current senior) Scott Morrison. "Jason can really run the floor. He has good feet, good hands and will be the total package to work with."

At 6-11, 220 pounds, Conrad is a versatile forward/center. As a junior, he averaged 10 points, 11 rebounds and four blocked shot per game. Conrad earned second team All Tri-County Athletic League. He was also named to Bob Hagen Memorial All-Tournament Team. Conrad led the Tri-County League in rebounds and blocked shots.

As a sophomore in 2005-06, Conrad was named second team All-League as well. He averaged 7.4 points, 9.1 rebounds and 4.2 blocked shots. Conrad was named Bob Hagen Tournament Most Valuable Player, and earned Valley Christian All-Tournament honors. Gilroy won the Tri-County League Championship that season.

Conrad participated in the Northern California Super 100 Camp in 2005 and 2006. He has been referenced by Scout.com as one of the top center prospects on the west coast for 2008.

The son of Bill and Karin Conrad, both of his parents played collegiately at Santa Clara University. His father competed in baseball, and his mother was a volleyball player. Conrad's sister, Kristina, received a full ride volleyball scholarship at San Jose State.

Conrad will join the Portland State program next season when it has a need for a big man. Viking center Scott Morrison, also 6-11, is one of five seniors on the roster.