BREAKING: 5-Star Sophomore PF Tylis Jordan Commits to Michigan State — Shocking the College Basketball World by Choosing Spartan Green Over Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Kansas
By Marcus Dennard | Senior Recruiting Analyst – ESPN College Basketball | June 23, 2025
In a seismic shift that’s sent ripples through the college basketball recruiting landscape, Tylis Jordan, the nation’s top-ranked sophomore power forward in the Class of 2025, has officially committed to Michigan State University, bypassing traditional recruiting giants like Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Kansas in a move that electrifies Spartan Nation and redefines the future of the program.
The 6-foot-9 phenom out of Little Rock, Arkansas, is widely considered a generational talent—long, versatile, and incredibly skilled for his age. Known for his explosive first step, soft shooting touch, and dominant presence on both ends of the floor, Jordan averaged 23.4 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks during his sophomore season at Jefferson Prep. He’s drawn comparisons to a young Chris Bosh with flashes of Kevin Garnett’s competitive edge.
But it’s not just the numbers or highlight reels that set him apart—it’s his mindset.
> “I wanted a place that felt like home, that saw me as more than just rankings and potential,” Jordan said in his announcement. “Coach Izzo looked me in the eye and talked about growth, about brotherhood, and about legacy. That’s what I want to be a part of.”
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo, entering his 31st season at the helm, called Jordan’s commitment “a foundational moment” for the next chapter of Spartan basketball.
> “Tylis is the kind of player that redefines what’s possible. His talent is elite, but his character, work ethic, and leadership potential are what make him truly special,” Izzo said. “This isn’t just a big get—it’s a message to the rest of the country that Michigan State is building for greatness.”
Jordan’s decision shocked recruiting analysts, many of whom had projected him as a lock for Kansas or Tennessee, both of whom made full-court presses in recent months. Oklahoma, too, had ramped up its pitch with an aggressive NIL offer and promises of early stardom.
Sources close to Jordan say he turned down multiple seven-figure NIL packages, choosing instead to focus on long-term development and culture.
> “He’s playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers,” one Power Five assistant coach said anonymously. “Izzo is getting a future lottery pick who thinks like a veteran pro.”
The commitment has already had a domino effect: multiple top-25 recruits from the Class of 2025 and 2026 are reportedly considering visits to East Lansing following Jordan’s announcement. Michigan State now holds the No. 1 ranked early recruiting class for 2025, with Jordan as the crown jewel.
Tylis Jordan’s announcement, delivered via a live-streamed video filmed at a packed gym in his hometown, ended with him pulling a green Spartan cap over his head, sparking a frenzy on social media. Within hours, #DreamsToGreen was trending nationwide.
For Michigan State fans, this commitment isn’t just about one player—it’s a statement of intent.
And for Tylis Jordan, it’s not just a commitment.
It’s the beginning of a legacy.
