As Bobby Hurley continues to work on rebuilding his roster following so many transfer portal departures, he landed a highly coveted high school recruit on Monday. Marcus Jackson, the highest ranked center still uncommitted, has chosen Arizona State.
BREAKING: Marcus Jackson, the highest-ranked center prospect who'd been uncommitted in the 2025 class, just gave Bobby Hurley and the Sun Devils his pledge according to @DushawnLondon1. He's the No. 9 center and No. 81 overall recruit in the class by 247.https://t.co/sl7VvIXi0E
— Chris Karpman (@ChrisKarpman) April 7, 2025
Jackson, a 4-star prospect, had originally committed to play for Maryland but backed out following the Terrapins' coaching change. That made him the highest rated uncommitted center 'prospect, ranked as the ninth best center in the nation and the 81st best overall prospect.
Standing at 6'8" and 230 pounds, Jackson is a bit undersized for the position, but he makes up for it with his athleticism and length. He flashed often with dunks and alley-oops, gaining a reputation as an elite finisher who is still developing the rest of his offensive game. He also averaged 1.4 blocks a game this past year, offering some plus value on defense.
Jackson's addition comes in the wake of Arizona State losing Jayden Quaintance, an elite defensive presence as a freshman this past year. He marks the third big man that Hurley has added to his high school recruiting class, also adding Allen Mukeba from Oakland via the transfer portal.
While it would be unrealistic to expect Jackson to actually replace Quaintance - he likely won't be a starter, at least not right away - the Sun Devils appear to be trying to fill the void with quantity over quality.
Jackson's high flying play style will certainly make for some entertaining basketball, especially when paired with dime specialist Moe Odum, who just transferred in from Pepperdine.