Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 13, 2024 6:14 pm GMT
As anticipation builds among basketball fans, five-star recruit Jalen Haralson is set to announce his college decision this Wednesday. The 2025 prospect has narrowed his choices to three prestigious programs: Indiana University, Notre Dame, and Michigan State. Haralson is highly regarded for his skills on the court, and his decision is expected to have significant implications for college basketball recruiting in Indiana.
Jalen Haralson: A Rising Star
Jalen Haralson, a 6-foot-7 small forward from La Lumiere School in LaPorte, Indiana, has made headlines for his impressive performance during the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) season. His statistics speak volumes about his abilities:
- Nike EYBL Spring and Summer: Averaged 21.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game.
- La Lumiere League Play: Averaged 9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting 44% from three-point range.
- Team USA U17 World Cup: Scored an average of 11.1 points along with 4 rebounds and had a shooting percentage of 49.1% from the field.
Haralson’s versatility allows him to play both guard positions or small forward, making him a valuable asset to any college team.
Final School Selection
Haralson originally had a longer list of contenders, including high-profile programs like Duke, Gonzaga, and Kansas. However, he has now dedicated his focus to three schools:
- Indiana University: Known for its passionate fan base and impressive basketball history.
- Notre Dame: A university with a rich tradition and competitive athletic programs.
- Michigan State: Recognized for its strong basketball program and coaching legacy.
He will announce his commitment live at 7 p.m. ET on the national 247Sports YouTube channel, a testament to the interest surrounding his decision.
Indiana University: A Strong Contender
Indiana has been a significant player in Haralson’s recruitment. The coaching staff has made multiple visits to La Lumiere, emphasizing their commitment to him. “The fan base is crazy,” Haralson remarked about Indiana. “You can’t beat that fan base. It’s very passionate. I think that’s the thing that sticks out the most.”
He also expressed appreciation for head coach Mike Woodson, an NBA coach who understands the aspirations of young athletes. “Coach Woodson is a player’s coach,” Haralson said. “He listens to what players have to say and adapts. It’s kind of like family, the staff to me.”
With family ties to Indiana and a growing relationship with the coaching staff, the Hoosiers appear to have strong support in Haralson’s decision process.
What’s Next for Haralson?
As Haralson prepares for his announcement, many are curious about what his choice may mean for the future of Indiana basketball. The Hoosiers recently secured a commitment from 2025 forward Trent Sisley, further indicating a push in growing their recruiting class.
Here is a quick recap of Haralson’s situation leading up to Wednesday’s announcement:
- Height: 6-foot-7
- Current School: La Lumiere School (formerly of Fishers High School)
- Average Stats: 9 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists (La Lumiere)
- Rank: 5-star recruit, ranked 10th overall in the 2025 class by On3 Industry Average.
Haralson’s decision is crucial, not just for himself but also for the trajectory of the basketball programs he is considering.
The Community Weighs In
Local fans and analysts alike are eager to see where Haralson will land. His connections with the Indiana basketball community are strong, and his choice will likely sway public sentiment. Many believe that whichever school secures his commitment could see an uptick in talent and future recruits.
“His ability to fill multiple roles could be a game changer,” said one local basketball analyst. “He’s a player that can elevate a program.”
As the recruitment process winds down, college basketball programs are holding their breath. Will Haralson opt for the familiar surroundings of Indiana, or venture into new territory with Notre Dame or Michigan State?
Conclusion
Jalen Haralson’s college choice is drawing significant attention ahead of his announcement on Wednesday. As a highly sought-after player from Indiana, his decision will impact not only his future but also the programs vying for his commitment. Fans will be keeping a close eye on his announcement, and regardless of his choice, Haralson’s journey is one worth following in the years to come.
Keep an eye on social media and basketball news to catch all the updates about Jalen Haralson’s announcement and Indiana basketball recruiting!
