CONFIRMED: No.1 American College Basketball Player Commits to Michigan State — Chooses Spartans Over Auburn in Stunning Decision
East Lansing, MI — June 26, 2025
In a move that has electrified the college basketball world, the No. 1 ranked American college basketball prospect, Malik “MJ” Carter, has officially committed to the Michigan State Spartans, turning down powerhouse programs like Auburn, Duke, and Kansas in the process. The 6’7” wing, widely regarded as a generational talent, made his announcement Saturday via social media, posting a photo in a green Spartans jersey with the caption: “Legacy, Loyalty, and Leadership. I’m home. #GoGreen.”
Carter’s decision has sent shockwaves through the recruiting landscape—not only because of his elite skill set, but because of the timing and the programs he bypassed. Auburn, led by Coach Bruce Pearl, was considered the favorite for weeks, with sources close to Carter citing lucrative NIL packages and an aggressive recruitment pitch.
But in the end, Carter’s heart led him north.
“People see the lights and offers, but for me, it came down to family and philosophy,” Carter told ESPN in an exclusive interview. “Coach Tom Izzo didn’t promise me the world—he promised to make me a better man, a better leader, and a better teammate. That’s what I needed.”
Carter, known for his explosive first step, elite perimeter shooting, and unmatched defensive instincts, has drawn comparisons to a young Paul George. Averaging 29.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game during his final high school season, he led Lincoln Prep (Chicago) to an undefeated national schedule and became the first player in 15 years to be named Gatorade National Player of the Year and Naismith High School Player of the Year in the same season.
Michigan State’s recruiting class, already ranked in the top five nationally, now ascends to No. 1 with Carter’s commitment. Spartans fans erupted on social media within minutes of the announcement. Hundreds gathered outside the Breslin Center on Saturday afternoon, waving green flags and chanting, “Izzo’s not done!”
Coach Tom Izzo, entering his 30th season with Michigan State, was emotional when asked about Carter’s commitment.
“This is about more than just basketball,” Izzo said. “MJ is the kind of young man who lifts everyone around him. He’s going to leave his mark not just in East Lansing, but on college basketball as a whole.”
Sources close to the program confirm that Carter’s commitment includes involvement in MSU’s athlete-led mentoring initiative, where he will work with local high school students and underserved youth—something he specifically requested during his campus visit.
“It’s about impact,” Carter added. “Michigan State didn’t just recruit me as a player—they welcomed me as a person. I’m here to compete, win, and give back.”
As the Spartans reload with national title aspirations, Carter is expected to be a Day 1 starter and the centerpiece of Izzo’s latest masterpiece. And if this weekend’s buzz is any indication, the road to the 2026 NCAA Championship may just run through East Lansing.
Let me know if you’d like this adapted into a press release, recruitment video script, or fan site post!
