Cam Ward has decided on a new district.
Ward, a four-star forward from metro Washington, D.C., committed to Michigan State men’s basketball Tuesday night, saying he “fell in love” with the campus when he visited earlier this fall.
Ward is from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and is the second commitment in Michigan State’s 2025 recruiting class, joining another metro D.C. prospect, small forward Jordan Scott. The two are good friends.
Ward chose Michigan State over Maryland, Kansas State and Virginia. He made his announcement on 247Sports.
“I chose Michigan State because who wouldn’t want to play for a legendary coach like Tom Izzo,” Ward told 247Sports. “He’s a great guy to be around. When I was down there, I just felt the love. It felt like home and the players were more than welcoming.
“They kept it real with me and told me how he was going to coach me hard and tell me everything I needed to hear to get better at my game. Not only was I on board with it, but my mom and dad loved it, too.
“We all loved it so we decided we might as well pull the trigger and commit.”
Ward visited Michigan State during Midnight Madness earlier this month, and his commitment comes as Michigan State football is getting set to play rival Michigan on Saturday night in Ann Arbor.
MSU basketball’s X (formerly Twitter) account posted a montage of clips of Izzo celebrating after Ward’s announcement.
Ward, 6-foot-7 and 210 pounds, is ranked the No. 54 prospect in the Class of 2025, and No. 2 in the state of Maryland, per 247Sports. Scott, 6-7 and 185 pounds, is ranked No. 52.
“Michigan State fans can expect some dogs,” Ward told 247Sports, speaking of himself and Scott, who is from Reston, Virginia. “I don’t know what else is coming, but whoever commits with us or joins us in the portal will just add to what we already have. We won’t be denied, will work every day in the gym and win.
“I wouldn’t pick a school that doesn’t win. Some schools on my list didn’t win enough games and produce a high level of pros. At Michigan State, you get that pro mindset but also be a college student while m preparing to win championships.
“I’m very willing to do the small things and make sure the team wins and is successful.”
tpaul@detroitnews.com
@tonypaul1984
