Northern Kentucky Secures Verbal Commitment from Lima Senior Star Willie Foster
Northern Kentucky officially opened preseason practices, joining the rest of Division I programs as preparations begin for the 2025–26 season. Over the next 42 days, teams are permitted 30 practices before the new season tips off. For the Norse, that journey begins at home on November 3rd against UC Clermont.
While practices were just getting underway, NKU also picked up a boost for its future. On Tuesday, September 16th, the Norse received a verbal commitment from 6'2" Lima Senior guard Willie Foster. Entering his senior season, Foster is coming off a strong year with the Spartans, where he averaged 15.6 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.
Check out the post below of Willie celebrating with his family:
Big day for Spartan Nation and Lima Senior Basketball standout Willie Foster, as he announces his commitment to Northern Kentucky University. Proud of you, Willie, and can't wait to follow your next journey. #spartanpride pic.twitter.com/paqmDxL2yS
— Lima City Schools (@LimaCitySchools) September 16, 2025
Former NKU standout Dantez Walton served as an assistant coach under Quincey Simpson at Lima Senior last season. As a player at Lima Central Catholic, Walton helped lead the program to two Ohio Division III state championships (2014 and 2016) and a state runner-up finish in 2015. In his four seasons with NKU (2016-2020), Dantez averaged 13.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game in his final two seasons and helped lead NKU to three Horizon League Championships (2017, 2019 and 2020).
Foster was recognized as a first-team All-Toledo City League selection and also named to the second-team for both All-District 8 and All-Northwest Ohio. Willie has put together a highlight reel of dunks, including one that reached No. 3 on SportsCenter’s Top 10.
Foster’s blend of athleticism and feel for the game makes him more than just a high-flyer. His ability to pressure the rim offensively and guard multiple positions immediately gives him the potential to contribute on both ends of the floor. Sources told Norse Illustrated that Foster projects as a two-way wing who could impact NKU’s defense from day one while continuing to develop as a versatile playmaker.
With the season fast approaching, Norse Illustrated will continue ramping up coverage to prepare fans for what should be an exciting year ahead.
