AP Photo/Gregory Payan
MacKenzie Mgbako, a 5-star recruit ranked eighth on 247Sports’ 2023 Top Men’s Basketball Prospects Composite List, has committed to Indiana after previously retiring from Duke , not Louisville, St. John’s and Kansas.
“The environment and support in the city is what caught my attention when I visited,” Mgbako said of Indiana, per 247Sports’ Dushawn London said the promise. “They are genuinely committed to the well-being of the players and stand behind them unwaveringly.”
Per John Patrick Felts, Wayne, Indiana Fortress digital engagement chief Mgbako is the Hoosiers’ second-highest recruit ever in the 247 Sports era, behind Romeo Langford.
Mgbako also raved about Indiana head coach Mike Woodson’s decision.
“I chose IU because I felt Coach Woodson would allow me to expand and develop my game,” Mgbako told On3’s Joe Tipton. “The environment in Indiana is unparalleled. Here, I feel the support of the coaching staff and fans. With Indiana State and its roster, there is a good chance of making a big difference and creating a winning culture.”
The tall The 6-foot-8, 210-pound forward asked to release his national letter of intent with Duke on April 11. He now joins a strong 2023 Indians roster that includes a pair of four-star guards in Gabe Cupps and Jakai Newton, and three big-man transfers in Anthony Walker, Kel’el Ware and the Payton Sparks.
Mgbako is confident about Indiana’s chances this year, and he thinks Indiana can win a Big Ten title, according to London.
“I’m excited to play with them,” Mgbako said. “We’ve bonded and developed a great relationship off the field, so there’s going to be a great chemistry on the field. We’ve got good size and talented guards. So, with that combination and coach Woodson With guidance, I believe we can win a conference championship this season.” The McDonald’s All-American in Roselle Catholic (NJ) played high school ball and helped lead the team to the state title in the non-public Group B bracket. Now he’s jumping ship to Indiana, as Mgbako joins a promising Indiana team next year.
