Mackenzie Mgbako is on his way to Indiana with the 5-star prospect announcing his commitment to the Hoosiers on Friday. Mgbako was previously a Duke signee before committing to Indiana over Kansas.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Borzello and Paul Biancardi, one piece of advice that helped guide Mgbako’s decision came from Carmelo Anthony, a former player for Woodson in the NBA. Mgbako indicated Anthony told him that Woodson “is a genuine guy. But on the court, he will push you.”

As for his commitment to the Hoosiers, Mgbako sees his game as a perfect fit:

“They have a need for my game. It’s a great fit,” said Mgbako per ESPN. “If I do my job, I will have the opportunity to start. I can bring scoring, rebounding and passing.”

NIL was also a factor with Mgbako pointing to “great NIL opportunities” in Bloomington.

2023-24 outlook for Indiana

There’s no denying the talent of the 6-foot-8 and 210-pound power forward. Mgbako is rated the No. 8 player in the nation per the 247 Sports Composite and should have a shot to be a difference-maker as a true freshman during the 2023-24 season.

While Indiana is losing Trayce Jackson-Davis to the NBA this offseason, Mike Woodson has done his best to reload the talent in Bloomington. Along with Mgbako, the Hoosiers added former 5-star big man Kel’el Ware via the transfer portal and signed a pair of 4-star guards from the high school ranks in Gabe Cupps and Jakai Newton.