In a surprising turn of events, JaShawn “JJ” Andrews, a highly touted four-star prospect from Little Rock Christian Academy in Arkansas, has committed to Purdue University, flipping his previous commitment from Missouri. The 6-foot-6, 220-pound small forward is ranked No. 42 nationally and No. 16 among small forwards in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports .([SI][1])
Andrews had initially committed to Missouri, where he was expected to be a cornerstone of their 2026 recruiting class. However, after reconsidering his options, he announced his decision to join the Boilermakers on May 15, 2025. This move is a significant boost for Purdue’s recruiting efforts, as they continue to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons.
Known for his versatility and athleticism, Andrews has been a standout player at Little Rock Christian Academy. He has accumulated over 2,200 points in his high school career and was named the Gatorade Player of the Year for Arkansas after averaging nearly 29 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and two blocks per game .([SI][1])
Purdue’s head coach, Matt Painter, has expressed enthusiasm about Andrews’ commitment, stating that his addition will bring a new level of dynamism to the team’s offense and defense. Andrews’ ability to play multiple positions and his high basketball IQ make him a valuable asset for the Boilermakers.
The decision to flip his commitment was influenced by Purdue’s strong basketball program and the opportunity to develop under Coach Painter’s guidance. Andrews has cited the program’s emphasis on player development and its competitive presence in the Big Ten Conference as key factors in his decision.
This commitment is a testament to Purdue’s growing reputation as a destination for top-tier basketball talent. With Andrews joining the ranks, the Boilermakers are poised to make a significant impact in the 2026 season and beyond.
As Andrews prepares to transition to collegiate basketball, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his skills translate to the next level. His commitment to Purdue marks a new chapter in his basketball journey and adds to the excitement surrounding the Boilermakers’ future prospects.