Drake Powell Declares Commitment to Michigan State: “I Will Do Everything I Can to Lead Michigan State to Victory”
April 18, 2025 | East Lansing, MI — In a bold move that sent ripples through the college basketball world, Drake Powell, one of the most highly-touted prospects in the 2025 class, has officially committed to Michigan State University. Choosing the Spartans over elite programs such as the University of Tennessee and his home-state powerhouse, the University of North Carolina, Powell made his intentions clear: he’s coming to East Lansing to win.
“I will do everything I can to lead Michigan State to victory,” Powell stated during a nationally televised announcement. “This is more than just basketball. It’s about loyalty, opportunity, and believing in something bigger than yourself.”
Powell’s decision marks a monumental win for head coach Tom Izzo and the Spartans, who have made it clear that they are building for both the present and the future. Known for his explosive athleticism, high basketball IQ, and leadership qualities, Powell is expected to be an immediate contributor and a cornerstone of Michigan State’s upcoming campaigns.
A Game-Changing Commitment
The 6’7″ small forward from Pittsboro, North Carolina has been turning heads since his sophomore year of high school, with scouts praising his versatility, defensive tenacity, and playmaking ability. Ranked in the top 15 nationally by several recruiting outlets, Powell was heavily courted by programs with long-standing winning traditions. His final three schools—Michigan State, Tennessee, and North Carolina—each offered unique advantages, but in the end, Powell said it was the culture at MSU that made the difference.
“When I visited East Lansing, it just felt right. The coaching staff believed in me not just as a player but as a person. The fans, the facilities, the family atmosphere—it all aligned with my values,” Powell explained. “Coach Izzo has a vision for this team and I see myself playing a big role in making that vision a reality.”
Loyalty and Opportunity
While many speculated that Powell would opt to stay close to home and suit up for the Tar Heels, the rising star emphasized that his decision came down to more than geography or tradition.
“This wasn’t an easy decision, especially with Carolina being so close to home,” he said. “But at the end of the day, I had to go where I felt I could grow the most and have the biggest impact. Michigan State offered me that chance.”
Powell’s commitment also speaks to the growing appeal of the Spartans’ program, which has recently seen a resurgence in recruiting and national competitiveness. Under Izzo’s leadership, MSU has cultivated a culture that balances grit, discipline, and development—qualities that Powell says deeply resonate with his own approach to the game.
Eyes on the Future
Drake Powell isn’t just focused on what he can do on the court—he’s looking to be a leader and role model for his teammates and the broader community.
“I want to be a transformative force—not just in wins and stats, but in how I represent this university and this team,” he said. “I want young kids to look at Michigan State and say, ‘That’s a place where leaders are made.’ I’m going to bring everything I’ve got, every day.”
With Powell now on board, Michigan State fans are buzzing with anticipation for what the future holds. His combination of talent, drive, and character seems tailor-made for the Spartans’ system, and his commitment may signal a new era for the program.
For Coach Izzo and the entire Michigan State community, Drake Powell’s announcement is more than a recruiting win—it’s a statement. The Spartans are not just chasing relevance; they’re aiming for dominance.
And with Powell leading the charge, that goal
just got a whole lot more real.
