There are conflicting reports surrounding Louisville’s recruiting target Mackenzie Mgbako. In a retweet shared by Mgbako, he confirmed he would meet with former Louisville coach and current St. Johns head coach Rick Pitino Monday. A Mackenzie Mgbako commitment would immediately facilitate Rick Pitino’s St Johns team into challengers for the Big East title.

It’s been an exciting weekend for the ex-Louisville head coach and current coach of the St. Johns Red Storm. Iona players Daniss Jenkins and Cruz Davis have announced they would transfer to St. Johns. And, moments ago, VMI transfer Sean Conway revealed his intention to play for the Red Storm in 2023-2024.

And Sunday, to add to the luster, St Johns and Rick Pitino hosted one of the top transfer portal players, All-Ivy League senior forward Chris Ledlum. Chris Ledlum led the Harvard Crismon in scoring, averaging 18.8 points per game and contributing 8.5 rebounds per game in 2022-2023. Billionaire Body Armor creator Mike Repole, who happens to be a St. John’s alumni, has made it clear he intends to assist the school with NIL funds. His deep pockets may give Louisville fans pause banking on Mackenzie Mgbako wearing Cardinal Red in 2023.

Last Wednesday, Travis Branham of 24/7 Sports reported the University of Louisville was the clear leader in the recruitment of Mackenzie Mgbako. Wednesday Night, Branham said, “Every single school is reaching out to him essentially. In particular, the options I have been hearing, number one Louisville.” That lead may be slipping.

But there are also positive signs. Mackenzie Mgbako follows Danny Manning, Nolan Smith, and Skyy Clark on Instagram. And importantly, Nolan Smith was part of the initial recruiting process for Mgbako at Duke and has been recognized for Mackenzie Mgbako’s original commitment to the Duke blue devils.

So What’s the Big Deal about Mackenzie Mgbako

For starters, Mackenzie Mgbako may be the best incoming shooter in college basketball. See the highlight reel below. He has genuine NBA range, and the scouts agree. Nearly every 2024 mock draft has Mackenzie Mgbako going in the first round, and several have him just outside the top ten. The 2024 draft will be stacked with talent. Bronny James, DJ Wagner, and Aaron Bradshaw will enter the NBA in 2024.

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