In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, the nation’s No. 1 high school basketball player — a towering 7-foot-9 phenom — has officially committed to Bruce Pearl’s Auburn Tigers, bypassing blue-blood programs like Duke, NC State, and archrival Alabama.
The unprecedented decision instantly elevates Auburn’s 2025 recruiting class to national prominence and redefines expectations for the upcoming college basketball season. The elite prospect, whose size and skill have drawn comparisons to Victor Wembanyama, has become the tallest player ever to commit to a Division I program. Scouts across the country have raved not only about his jaw-dropping height but also his surprising agility, fluid shooting form, and exceptional court vision for a player of his stature.
His commitment video, which featured him dunking without jumping and knocking down three-pointers with ease, quickly went viral, generating millions of views and igniting hype around Auburn’s program like never before.
“I chose Auburn because of the culture, the coaching staff, and the opportunity to make history,” the young star said during his announcement. “Coach Pearl believes in me not just as a player, but as a person — and I want to win a national championship with a team that feels like family.”
This recruiting coup is being hailed as Bruce Pearl’s most significant achievement in his Auburn tenure. Known for developing versatile big men and building dynamic, high-energy teams, Pearl now has the opportunity to coach a generational talent who could redefine the way the game is played at the collegiate level.
The impact of this commitment goes beyond the court. Merchandise sales have already spiked, Auburn Arena ticket demand is soaring, and national media attention is laser-focused on the Tigers. If the hype proves real, Auburn could be on a collision course with history — and perhaps, its first NCAA championship.
