After a challenging freshman year at Purdue cut short by a season-ending injury, 7-foot-4 center Daniel Jacobsen is back—and aiming to make a powerful statement on the international stage. The towering big man has officially been invited to the USA Basketball U19 National Team training camp, a significant milestone in his road to recovery and a testament to his immense potential.
Jacobsen’s journey has been anything but conventional. Just three games into his first college season, he suffered a leg injury that required surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the year. But rather than letting the setback define him, Jacobsen focused on rehabilitation and development—both physically and mentally. Now, he’s healthy, stronger than ever, and ready to compete among the best young players in the country.
The U19 training camp, set for June in Colorado Springs, is the gateway to the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup, which will be held in Switzerland this summer. Jacobsen will be among a select group of elite prospects vying for a spot on the final 12-man roster. It’s a familiar arena for him—he previously played a key role on the USA U18 team that won gold at the 2024 FIBA AmeriCup, where he set a tournament record with 19 blocks and anchored the defense with his imposing presence in the paint.
Now, Jacobsen is looking to build on that international experience. At Purdue, expectations are already rising for his sophomore season, and a strong performance in Team USA camp could serve as a launchpad. His size, shot-blocking ability, and rapidly developing offensive game make him one of the most intriguing big men in his class.
“Daniel’s work ethic and dedication to his development are what stand out,” Purdue head coach Matt Painter said. “We’re excited to see him get this opportunity.”
For Jacobsen, it’s more than just a tryout—it’s a shot at redemption and a glimpse of what’s to come. With his eyes on World Cup glory, the comeback story is just getting started.