Miami transfer center Michael Nwoko eager to begin Mississippi State career
Former Miami transfer center Michael Nwoko committed to Mississippi State last week and did so before stepping foot on the Bulldogs’ campus. However, this past weekend the Canada native officially visited Mississippi State and got his first in-person look at the program.
Nwoko is rated as the nation’s No. 24 transfer center and a four-star prospect per On3 rankings. He was one of three official visitors for the Bulldogs last weekend, joining Duke transfer center Christian Reeves and Boston College transfer guard Claudell Harris, who committed to State last Saturday during his official visit.
“I got there Friday night and it was good,” Nwoko recalled. “I got to spent some quality time in the college experience and environment. I also got to be around the coaches a lot and spend some time with several of their players.”
When Nwoko made his Bulldog decision, one of his top reasons was the opportunity to play for State head coach Chris Jans. And during his visit, being around Jans was one of the top highlights of Nwoko’s trip to Starkville.
“One of the things that stood out the most was just being around Coach Jans,” remarked the 6-foot-10 and 240-pound Nwoko. “He believes in me and we had a good time talking about everything. That is probably what stood out to me the most.”
During those conversations, Nwoko talked with the staff about his opportunity and expectations next season. Nwoko has three years of eligibility remaining and wants to make the most of his time in the SEC.
“We talked about their expectations for me and about the program,” Nwoko said. “They expect me to do my job in the post and help us win games and contribute a lot. I feel like I am good to fill up that role and do more.”
Interestingly enough, Nwoko will now by teammates with Harris after playing against him in the ACC last season. Nwoko shared his thoughts on Harris and expects big things from the new Bulldog guard.
“It was good being around Claudell during my visit and I’ve played against him a bunch of times,” Nwoko noted. “I know he is good and it was good to see him commit during the weekend. He is an electric player that will really help Mississippi State win, too. He’s hit some big shots and is a really good player.”
Not just with Harris but Nwoko is also eager to reap the benefits of State’s backcourt next season. Along with Harris that includes returning SEC All-Freshman standout Josh Hubbard and former Penn State guard Kanye Clary. Nwoko is familiar with 2024 Mississippi State signee Dellquan Warren, as well.
“I’ve seen a little bit of Josh Hubbard and I’ve watched some of Kanye Clary, as well,” mentioned Nwoko. “I know Claudell can get downhill really well. We also have a freshman coming in – Dellquan Warren – and I played against him in high school. So I know all of the guards are really good. That is big thing for the bigs, not only having guards that can put it in the hole but also find you in scoring position.”
In a few more weeks, Nwoko will return to Mississippi State in June to begin offseason workouts with his new teammates. And he already has a to-do list for that arrival.
“Man, if I could’ve stayed I would’ve stayed,” added Nwoko. “This summer I want to figure out the system, get comfortable with the coaching and take it day-by-day. Obviously in the summer time, it’s a lot of individual work and a whole lot of personal work. It’s good to have that time every year because you get to work on your craft and show what you can do.”
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