Michigan State Spartans Land Commitment from Rising Star Carlos Medlock Jr., the Explosive Point Guard Out of Link Academy Who Brings Elite Playmaking and Energy to Tom Izzo’s 2026 Recruiting Class….read More…

Michigan State Spartans Land Commitment from Rising Star Carlos Medlock Jr., the Explosive Point Guard Out of Link Academy Who Brings Elite Playmaking and Energy to Tom Izzo’s 2026 Recruiting Class….read More….

The Michigan State Spartans’ 2026 recruiting class just received a massive boost as Carlos Medlock Jr., one of the most rapidly rising guards in the nation, announced his commitment to play for Tom Izzo’s program. The 5-foot-11 point guard from powerhouse Link Academy (Missouri) pledged to the Spartans on July 25, 2025, giving MSU its first official commitment in the 2026 cycle.

Medlock Jr. may not have started his high school career as a household name, but his stock has skyrocketed in the last year. Ranked outside the top 150 nationally in early 2024, Medlock has since surged into the top 70 prospects in the country, earning praise for his speed, vision, and toughness. With this commitment, Michigan State secures not just a talented player, but a fiery leader capable of energizing the Breslin Center in the years to come.

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The Rise of Carlos Medlock Jr.

Medlock Jr.’s journey has been marked by steady improvement and relentless work ethic. Scouts initially saw him as an undersized, scrappy guard, but his breakout performances with Link Academy and on the AAU circuit have shifted the conversation entirely.

In the spring and summer of 2025, Medlock put together standout performances against elite competition, showcasing not just his scoring ability but also his knack for setting up teammates and controlling the game’s pace. Recruiting analysts noted that he plays with “fearlessness”—unafraid to take big shots, battle taller guards, and create plays in traffic.

One recruiting outlet described him as “a sparkplug guard with elite quickness, tight handles, and a strong competitive motor—exactly the kind of player who thrives under Tom Izzo.”

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Why Michigan State?

Michigan State’s tradition of developing tough, hard-nosed guards was a key selling point for Medlock Jr. He joins a program known for producing floor generals like Mateen Cleaves, Cassius Winston, and Kalin Lucas—players who not only excelled individually but also elevated the Spartans on deep NCAA Tournament runs.

“I wanted to play somewhere that values defense, leadership, and winning,” Medlock Jr. said in his commitment statement. “Coach Izzo has built that kind of culture at Michigan State, and I can see myself growing there on and off the court.”

Tom Izzo, entering the later stages of his Hall of Fame career, has emphasized recruiting players who embody toughness and resilience. Medlock Jr.’s gritty style seems tailor-made for the program’s identity.

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What He Brings to the Spartans

As Michigan State’s first 2026 commit, Medlock Jr. sets the tone for the class. His impact can be broken down into several key areas:

Elite Speed and Quickness: He’s nearly impossible to stay in front of, often blowing by defenders to get into the paint.

Playmaking Ability: Averaging close to seven assists per game during the summer circuit, he thrives at setting up teammates for easy baskets.

Toughness and Defense: At 5’11”, Medlock plays with a chip on his shoulder, often picking up opposing guards full court and pressuring them into mistakes.

Clutch Factor: Known for hitting big shots late in games, he has the confidence to take over when it matters most.

For a program that has prided itself on blue-collar intensity, Medlock Jr. fits perfectly into Michigan State’s culture.

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Recruiting Momentum Building

Landing Medlock Jr. could be the start of a strong recruiting class for Michigan State. The Spartans are also finalists for elite big man Ethan Taylor, a 7-foot center ranked among the top 25 nationally, and versatile forward Jalyn Collingwood, both of whom are scheduled to visit East Lansing in October.

Analysts believe that Medlock Jr.’s early commitment could help set the stage for a domino effect, potentially convincing other highly-ranked recruits that Michigan State is the place to be.

“This is a statement pickup for Izzo and his staff,” one recruiting expert noted. “They’ve locked in a point guard who embodies the Michigan State brand and could be the emotional leader of this class.”

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A Look Ahead

With Carlos Medlock Jr. now officially part of the fold, Spartans fans can start envisioning what the future backcourt might look like in East Lansing. His ability to push the tempo, distribute the ball, and bring relentless energy is the kind of foundation every recruiting class needs.

For Medlock Jr., the commitment is just the beginning. “I know I have to keep working,” he said. “But I’m ready to represent Michigan State and give everything I’ve got.”

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Conclusion

Carlos Medlock Jr.’s commitment to Michigan State signals more than just the addition of a talented guard—it represents a new wave of Spartan basketball built on grit, leadership, and heart. While rankings and accolades will continue to evolve, one thing is clear: Medlock Jr. has the tools and mindset to be a cornerstone for Michigan State’s 2026 recruiting class and beyond.

With Izzo’s guidance and the tradition of Spartan excellence behind him, Carlos Medlock Jr. is poised to carry the green and white into a bright new chapter—one where his determination on the court could make him a future fan favorite and a defining leader of Michigan State basketball.