In a performance for the ages, 2026 Purdue basketball commit Marcus Ellison etched his name into Indiana high school basketball history during the annual Indiana Junior-Senior All-Star Game. The 6-foot-7 forward from Lawrence North delivered a dominant display, scoring 36 points and grabbing 12 rebounds to lead the Juniors to a thrilling 98-95 victory over the Seniors — marking the first time in over a decade the Junior squad has come out on top.
Ellison’s 36 points set a new scoring record for the Junior-Senior All-Star Game, surpassing the previous high of 33 points held by current NBA star Romeo Langford. But it wasn’t just the numbers that stood out — it was how he did it. From deep three-pointers to thunderous dunks and critical late-game free throws, Ellison showcased the versatility and poise that made him one of Purdue’s top targets in the 2026 recruiting class.
“This is what Indiana basketball is all about,” Ellison said postgame. “It’s an honor to play alongside the state’s best, and to compete at this level. To break a record and win the game — it’s surreal.”
His performance electrified the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, drawing praise from fans, scouts, and college coaches alike. Purdue head coach Matt Painter, who was in attendance, expressed excitement about Ellison’s future.
“Marcus continues to show why he’s such a special player,” Painter said. “He’s a competitor, a leader, and someone who can impact the game in every facet. Purdue fans have a lot to look forward to.”
Ellison’s standout night also included a key defensive stop in the final seconds, where he blocked a potential game-tying three from Senior star Jaylen Thomas, a Butler commit. The Juniors celebrated wildly as the buzzer sounded, with Ellison at the center of the celebration.
With his All-Star Game heroics, Ellison has further solidified his place among Indiana’s elite. As he heads into his senior year and prepares for his collegiate future at Purdue, the state’s basketball community will be watching closely — and expecting more history in the making.
“I’m just getting started,” Ellison said with a smile. “There’s more to come.”