FINALLY: No. 6 overall ranked player in America Five-star Small Forward  from Lebanon, OH Commits, chooses Michigan Spartans Basketball over Michigan, Kentucky and Ohio State in the 2026 class

In a monumental recruiting win for Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans, five-star small forward Anthony Thompson from Lebanon, Ohio, has officially committed to Michigan State’s 2026 recruiting class. Thompson, ranked as the No. 6 overall player in the country, chose the Spartans over a powerhouse list of programs that included Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio State. The 6-foot-7 standout made his decision after a highly publicized recruitment process, giving the Spartans a significant boost as they look to maintain their status as one of the premier programs in college basketball.

Thompson’s commitment is not just a major addition for Michigan State—it’s a statement. Tom Izzo has long been known for his ability to develop versatile forwards and instill a gritty, hard-nosed playing style that thrives in March. Thompson’s size, athleticism, and polished skill set make him an ideal fit for Izzo’s system. A dynamic scorer and elite defender, Thompson has been a dominant force at the high school level, and his potential to thrive at the college level was a major reason why top programs like Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio State aggressively pursued him.

“I felt like Michigan State was the right place for me,” Thompson said during his announcement. “Coach Izzo has a great track record with players like me, and I know he can help me reach my full potential. The culture at Michigan State is special—it’s about hard work and winning, and that’s exactly what I’m looking for.”

Thompson’s recruitment had been closely watched over the past year. Michigan State made him a top priority early, and Izzo personally attended multiple games to scout him. Michigan, Kentucky, and Ohio State all made strong pushes, with Thompson even taking official visits to all three schools. However, Michigan State’s consistent presence and clear development plan for Thompson ultimately gave the Spartans the edge.

At 6-foot-7, Thompson possesses a rare blend of size, skill, and athleticism. He can score at all three levels, with a smooth shooting stroke from beyond the arc, a lethal mid-range game, and the strength to finish at the rim. Defensively, he has the length and lateral quickness to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in any lineup. His basketball IQ and court vision also stand out, allowing him to make plays for teammates and operate as a secondary ball-handler when needed.

For Michigan State, landing a player of Thompson’s caliber signals that the Spartans remain a destination for elite talent under Izzo. In an era where blue-blood programs like Kentucky and Duke have dominated the recruiting landscape, Michigan State has quietly maintained its status as a consistent force in the Big Ten and nationally. Adding Thompson to the 2026 class gives the Spartans a foundational piece who could develop into one of the top players in college basketball.

Thompson’s commitment also carries added weight because of the regional rivalry implications. Choosing Michigan State over Michigan and Ohio State adds extra motivation heading into future Big Ten matchups. “I know it’s going to be intense when we play Michigan and Ohio State,” Thompson said. “But that’s part of what excites me about playing in the Big Ten. I’m ready for that challenge.”

With Thompson on board, Michigan State’s 2026 recruiting class immediately jumps into the national spotlight. Thompson’s decision is a testament to Izzo’s ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent while maintaining the competitive edge that has defined Michigan State basketball for decades. As Thompson prepares for his senior season of high school basketball, Spartan fans can already start dreaming about the impact he’ll have in East Lansing.