Cleveland State University

Waqo Tessema, a 6’0” guard from Winnipeg, British Columbia is the newest addition to the 2025-26 Cleveland State men’s basketball team. Head coach Rob Summers adds Tessema to the roster after two seasons at Panola Junior College in Texas. Tessema will have two years of eligibility remaining in Cleveland.
 
“We’re thrilled to welcome Waqo to the Viking family,” said Coach Summers. “He has a relentless work ethic and a team-first mentality. We’re excited to be part of his growth both as a player and a person—here at Cleveland State.”
 
Tessema played two seasons at Panola where he appeared in 64 total games. He saw his minute totals jump by an average of five minutes per game in his second season. He appeared in 35 games making 28 starts in year two averaging 9.9 points per game and shooting 40 percent from the field. He averaged just under three assists per game and finished the season with a 1.5 assist-to-turnover ratio.
 
Tessema played his high school basketball at Glenlawn Collegiate Academy in Canada. While there he became the first sophomore to win the MVP award in the almost 70-year history of the prestigious Luther Invitational Tournament held in Regina. He averaged 25 points, five rebounds, five assists and four steals and was named an all-star in multiple high school events.
 
Tessema is also an outstanding student who maintained high academic marks during his time at Glenlawn. When asked about his commitment, he stated, “I chose Cleveland State because of the culture. Coach Summers builds his program on a foundation of family, and wants to win right away! I know I will fit right in with this culture and I’m excited to get to it!”