From Douglas to the NBA: Former Apache Oscar Cluff Signs with Houston Rockets as Undrafted Free Agent

DOUGLAS, Ariz. – The journey that began at Cochise College has reached another incredible milestone.

Former Cochise College All-American Oscar Cluff has signed with the Houston Rockets as an undrafted free agent and will compete with the organization during the 2026 NBA Summer League, which begins July 3 in Las Vegas.

For Cochise College Men's Basketball, Cluff's signing is another reminder that the path from Douglas can lead all the way to the highest level of basketball.

The 6-foot-11 center arrived at Cochise from Queensland, Australia and quickly established himself as one of the premier post players in junior college basketball. During his two seasons with the Apaches from 2021-23, Cluff helped lead Cochise to 58 victories, a 2022 NJCAA Region 1 Championship, and earned NJCAA Second Team All-America honors during his sophomore campaign. He averaged 12.0 points as a freshman before elevating his game to 18.2 points and 9.8 rebounds per game as a sophomore, while shooting an incredible nearly 75 percent from the field during both seasons.

His success at Cochise opened the door to NCAA Division I basketball, where Cluff continued to develop against elite competition.

He transferred to Washington State University, becoming a key contributor on a Cougars team that won 25 games and advanced to the 2024 NCAA Tournament, averaging 7.0 points and 4.4 rebounds in his first Division I season.

Seeking a larger role, Cluff transferred to South Dakota State, where he emerged as one of the nation's most dominant centers. During the 2024-25 season, he averaged 17.6 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game, recorded 22 double-doubles, earned Summit League Newcomer of the Year, First Team All-Summit League, Summit League All-Defensive Team honors, and finished among the national leaders in rebounding and field-goal percentage.

His remarkable season made him one of the most sought-after players in the NCAA transfer portal, leading him to Purdue University for his final collegiate season.

With the Boilermakers, Cluff started every game while helping Purdue reach the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. He averaged 10.6 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game, shot 68.3 percent from the field—the second-highest single-season mark in Purdue history—and earned MVP honors at the Baha Mar Championship while further elevating his NBA Draft stock.

Although his name was not called during the 2026 NBA Draft, Cluff's professional dream remained alive. Shortly after the draft concluded, he signed with the Houston Rockets and will have the opportunity to showcase his talents during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, where he will compete for a chance to earn a roster spot within the Rockets organization.

Cluff's rise from an international recruit at Cochise College to an NBA Summer League opportunity is a testament to years of hard work, perseverance, and continuous development. His story serves as an inspiration to current and future Apaches, proving that with dedication and determination, the journey from Douglas can lead to basketball's biggest stage.

Congratulations, Oscar! The entire Cochise College family is proud of you and will be cheering you on as you take the next step in your professional career.