Owatonna Senior Rielly Kleeberger committed to the University of Wisconsin–Eau ClaireI to play Division III basketball. He finished out a strong senior year by leading the Huskies to a top-four finish in the conference and the number-five seed in section play. 

When deciding to commit it was a fairly easy one. Kleeberger said, “I chose UW Eau Claire because I loved the school, area, and the basketball program.” Kleeberger is excited to make the jump to the next level and is prepared to help out the team in any way possible that will help them win. 

There are many things to look forward to and to be excited about; Kleeberger said, “I’m excited I made it to the next level because I get to play the sport I love for four more years.” 

With many commitments from the Owatonna Basketball team in the past years, this does not come as a surprise. A lot of hard work has been put in for Kleeberger to get to this point. Coach Josh Williams said, “There are a lot of words to describe what it took for Rielly to achieve that goal.  He has no doubt earned that opportunity by making himself skilled and talented enough to play at the collegiate level.” 

Many moments have helped Kleeberger get to this point. A few big moments this season include a 27-point game against Stillwater and three big free throws to win a game against Rochester John Marshall. 

There are many things that it takes to compete at the next level. Williams said, “Number one is the correct mindset. The second would be an unyielding love for the game.  A lot of kids can’t handle playing collegiately once they get there. No doubt the love and passion Rielly has for the game has enabled him to persevere through what could be some difficult and challenging times.” Kleeberger has the work ethic and drive to succeed at the next level and hopes to make a big impact when getting there.

Kleeberger will continue his basketball career at the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire and is undecided on his major.