Mackenzie Mgbako to Aid Star-Studded Indiana Lineup Next Season

It’s no secret Indiana has one of the more illustrious all-time basketball programs. And after losing some of their top players in Trayce Jackson-Davis and Jalen Hood-Schifino to the 2023 NBA Draft, they’re again set to reload with top talent.

Indiana is set to compete next year with headliners in one of the top transfers Kel’el Ware and returnees Xavier Johnson, Trey Galloway and Malik Reneau.

But their likely fifth starter has yet to play a minute of collegiate basketball, and could very well be the catalyst for their success.

Five-star Mackenzie Mgbako committed to Indiana in the offseason following a decommitment from the Duke Blue Devils. And should be the next in line of talented Indiana freshmen to propel themselves to the NBA Draft.

A 6-foot-8 forward, Mgbako has more of a traditional-style frame with a mostly modern skillset. He has the profile to play the power forward, utilizing his strength for an interior presence, but has the perimeter chops to succeed too.

He has a smooth, high release and should see plenty of shots playing off the already established Hoosiers. And to top it all off, Mgbako has the athleticism not only to stand out at the collegiate level, but professionally too.

There’s no question his physicality and shooting prowess are going to yield him buckets in the Indiana system. But his draft stock may be tied to the variety of other areas that make players great, including passing, rebounding, defense and more.

Regardless, there’s sure to be fireworks for both Mgbako and Indiana this upcoming season. Ones that could raise his stock ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft.

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