KEARNEY, Neb. — A pair of Kearney Bearcat best friends are heading to play baseball at the next level.

Griffin Novacek and Bryce Andersen signed their letters of intent to Iowa Western on Wednesday.

Novacek originally committed to the University of Central Florida but reopened his recruitment over the summer. Once he selected Iowa Western, Andersen was close behind.

“I wasn’t really decided yet, but I think once he committed, it was kind of just like, might as well just do it,” Andersen said.

“Me and him have been best friends since a really young age," Novacek said. "It will be real nice to be able to play with each other for at least couple more years. You’ve just got to enjoy every moment you have with each other.”

The duo were among the top hitters for Kearney High last season and tied for the team lead in extra-base hits. They both pitched as well, posting ERA’s in the low threes.

Andersen’s older brother, Brayden, previously played for Iowa Western. The Reivers are a perennial top ten team in the junior college ranks.