In a stunning twist on the recruiting trail, five-star prospect Lamar Wilkerson has flipped his commitment from Ole Miss to the Indiana Hoosiers, sending shockwaves through the college basketball world. The 6-foot-5, 280-pound guard, widely regarded as one of the most physically dominant players in the 2025 class, now joins head coach Mike Woodson’s squad, adding elite talent and toughness to a program on the rise.
Wilkerson’s recruitment has been one of the most talked-about storylines in recent months. Originally pledging to Ole Miss, Wilkerson shocked many by decommitting and reopening his recruitment. Indiana, Auburn, and Kentucky quickly made their case, but in the end, it was the tradition, coaching, and fit in Bloomington that won out.
“I had to really think about where I could grow the most, both on and off the court,” Wilkerson said in his official statement. “Coach Woodson made it clear that I’d have the opportunity to lead, to be challenged, and to take my game to the next level at Indiana. This decision wasn’t easy, but it feels right. I’m excited to be a Hoosier.”
Wilkerson brings a rare combination of power and finesse to the guard position. At 280 pounds, he plays like a linebacker but moves like a wing — overpowering defenders with his strength while also flashing smooth footwork, vision, and a soft shooting touch. He averaged 23 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists per game last season while shooting 37% from beyond the arc. His versatility allows him to handle the ball, finish through contact, and defend multiple positions.
For Indiana, this is a major recruiting coup. Wilkerson’s commitment gives the Hoosiers one of the most physically gifted guards in the country, a player capable of impacting the game immediately in the Big Ten. With his commitment, Indiana’s 2025 class jumps into elite territory and sends a strong message to the rest of college basketball: the Hoosiers are serious about returning to national prominence.
“This is a game-changer for us,” Coach Mike Woodson said in a statement. “Lamar is a unique talent — strong, skilled, and fearless. He brings intensity and leadership, and he wants to win. That’s what we’re building here at Indiana.”
Indiana beat out top-tier programs for Wilkerson’s pledge. Kentucky made a strong late push, Auburn pitched early playing time, and Ole Miss fought to hold onto his original commitment. But it was Indiana’s culture, player development under Woodson, and history of producing tough, high-IQ players that sealed the deal.
Fans in Bloomington are already buzzing about Wilkerson’s arrival. With his size, skill, and edge, he’s expected to be one of the faces of the program from day one. The Hoosiers haven’t had a player quite like him in years, and his commitment could mark a turning point for the team’s trajectory.
As one of the top prospects in the nation, Lamar Wilkerson’s flip to Indiana doesn’t just strengthen the Hoosiers’ roster — it elevates expectations, energizes the fan base, and positions IU as a serious force in college basketball moving forward.