— Michigan State Basketball has landed one of its most high-profile recruits in recent memory, as five-star center Jamal “J-Roc” Thompson announced his commitment to the Spartans on Monday afternoon. Standing at a commanding 7 feet tall and ranked No. 27 nationally in the Class of 2025 by 247Sports, Thompson’s pledge is a major recruiting victory for head coach Tom Izzo.
Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, and playing for Desert Ridge High School, Thompson turned heads across the nation with his dominant performances on both ends of the court. Averaging 21.3 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks per game in his senior season, Thompson combines elite size with an impressive skill set. His footwork, touch around the rim, and timing on defense have drawn comparisons to former NBA bigs like Marcus Camby and LaMarcus Aldridge.
Thompson chose MSU over several blue-blood programs, including Kansas, Duke, and Arizona. In a live-streamed announcement at his high school gym packed with fans, teammates, and national media, Thompson revealed his choice by unzipping his jacket to show a green and white Spartans jersey. “I believe in Coach Izzo’s vision, and I want to be part of something bigger than basketball,” he said. “MSU felt like family. I want to win a national championship in East Lansing.”
Izzo, entering what many believe could be his final few years at the helm, was effusive in his praise. “Jamal is a special talent,” he said in a statement. “He brings toughness, humility, and a drive to get better every day. He can be one of the best big men we’ve had in this program.”
Recruiting analysts say Thompson could make an immediate impact in the Big Ten. With senior forward Malik Cooper graduating, Thompson is expected to slot into the starting lineup early. His arrival also boosts MSU’s 2025 recruiting class to No. 5 nationally, which includes four-star point guard Trey Lucas and versatile wing Sean Carter.
The Spartans, coming off a Sweet 16 run in 2025, are reloading for a deeper postseason push. With Thompson anchoring the paint, MSU fans have plenty to be excited about as a new era begins in Spartan basketball.
