In a massive coup for head coach Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans, five-star forward KJ Evans has officially committed to play his college basketball in East Lansing. The 6-foot-9 athletic standout from Montverde Academy (FL), widely considered one of the top prospects in the 2025 class, chose Michigan State over powerhouse programs including Duke, Kansas, and Kentucky.
Evans, ranked No. 7 nationally by 247Sports, made his announcement via social media on Wednesday morning, sending shockwaves throughout the college basketball landscape. His commitment is viewed as one of the most significant recruiting wins for the Spartans in recent years.
“Michigan State felt like home,” Evans said during an interview. “Coach Izzo has built a legendary program, and I believe in his vision for me as both a player and a person.”
While Evans did not go into full detail, he stated two key reasons for choosing the Spartans, which insiders believe center around the team’s player development and their national platform on the court.
Known for his explosive leaping ability, polished mid-range jumper, and relentless defensive energy, Evans is expected to make an immediate impact for Michigan State. At Montverde, he averaged 17.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game as a junior, leading his team to a state title and earning MVP honors at the City of Palms Classic.
Tom Izzo, who has long been regarded as one of the best in-game coaches and player developers in college hoops, was visibly thrilled with the addition.
“This is a major moment for our program,” Izzo said. “KJ is not only a gifted player, but also a tremendous young man. He brings versatility, toughness, and a team-first mentality — everything we value at Michigan State.”
KJ Evans joins a strong recruiting class that already includes four-star guard Marcus Doyle and power forward Brandon Matthews, rounding out what many analysts are calling a top-five national class for 2025.
Evans’ commitment solidifies Michigan State as a legitimate Final Four contender not just in the long term, but as early as his freshman year.
With East Lansing now buzzing with excitement, the Spartans faithful can start dreaming big again — because with KJ Evans on board, the road to March Madness just got a lot more exciting.
