Bilal Osman, a 6-foot-8 standout from Tacoma, Washington, by way of Stockholm, Sweden, recently made a life-changing decision. After an official visit to the University of Massachusetts (UMass), the 2025 prospect knew he had found his new home.
“I wasn’t planning to commit so soon, but after spending time on campus and meeting the coaching staff, it just felt right,” Osman shared. “Coach Frank Martin and his team made a huge impression on me. I believe they can help me grow both as a player and as a person.”
Osman’s visit, which spanned three days, gave him a firsthand look at the UMass basketball program and campus life. He was particularly drawn to the culture and the opportunities presented by Coach Martin.
“Coach Martin was upfront with me from the start,” Osman explained. “He told me that if I put in the work, especially on defense, I’ll have a chance to make an immediate impact. He values hard work and dedication, and that’s exactly the kind of environment I want to be in.”
Beyond basketball, Osman was impressed by Martin’s passion and personality. “On the court, he’s intense and demands a lot from his players, but off the court, he’s someone you can really connect with. We had dinner together, and it was clear he genuinely cares about his players.”
The UMass campus and community also left a lasting impression on Osman. “The facilities, the dining halls, the overall vibe—it all felt like a place where I could thrive. The players I met were great, and it just felt like a family. It really felt like home.”
Osman chose UMass over offers from Arizona State and Long Island University, among others. “I had other visits planned, but after my time at UMass, I knew I didn’t need to look any further. This is where I belong.”
Osman’s journey to this point has been anything but ordinary. Moving to the United States two years ago from Sweden, he aimed to elevate his game and increase his visibility to college programs. “Recruiting from overseas is tough, so coming to the U.S. was a big step for me. It’s been challenging, but it’s also been the best decision for my career.”
Now, with his commitment to UMass, Osman is eager to take the next step in his basketball journey. “I’m beyond excited to get to Amherst, start working with the team, and show what I can do. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see where this path takes me.”
Osman’s commitment is a significant win for UMass, as they add a versatile, hardworking player with international experience and a hunger to succeed. For Osman, it’s the start of an exciting new chapter—one filled with opportunity, growth, and the chance to make his mark on the court.
