Top-125 recruit Mason Blackwood commits to Penn State

Mason Blackwood, a three-star small forward in the 2025 class, has committed to Penn State and head coach Mike Rhoades, he told On3.

The 6-foot-7 senior out of New Hampton School (NH) ultimately chose the Nittany Lions over Rutgers. He also received offers from Marquette, Boston College, Northwestern, West Virginia, Wake Forest, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Washington, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M.

Blackwood is the No. 120 overall recruit in the 2025 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. He’s also the No. 28 small forward prospect. The On3 Industry Ranking is a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Blackwood on his commitment to Penn State

Mason Blackwood discussed his decision to choose Penn State with On3.

“I chose Penn State because of the genuine love the coaches showed at Penn State to me and my family,” he said. “I loved the opportunity they presented to me, and the goals they had laid out for me and I felt like I resented with them extremely well and it was a great fit.”

What led to his trust in the coaching staff?

“Coach Rhodes and his staff were always reaching out to me constantly checking up on me about basketball and off court things. It was always out of love and care. They showed how passionate they were as a coaching staff and how well they connected with each other. They were all good people and I had much respect for them.”

In his own words, what type of player is Penn State getting in Mason Blackwood?

“I would describe my game style as a strong big wing who is athletic, with a competitive mindset and versatile offensively defensively.”

He has a message for Penn State fans.

“WE ARE… headed for something special! I’m beyond excited to officially commit to Penn State and join this amazing family. The energy, the passion, and the culture here are unmatched, and I can’t wait to give it my all on the court in blue and white. Let’s go Nittany Nation!!”

Scouting Report

“Mason Blackwood has a lengthy and strong frame. He plays with a lot of confidence, and with that comes production. He moves his feet well on defense, switchable on that end, and he is a good rebounder. Blackwood will need to tighten his overall ball skills, both shot and bounce, but there is something there. He makes some solid reads in the half court. There are some clear, interesting pieces there.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw

Blackwood was also a standout at the Nike EYBL Indianapolis Session according to Jamie Shaw:

“Blackwood had a lot of coaches buzzing with his Saturday performances. Against the Oakland Soldiers, the 6-foot-6 wing had a game-high 23 points and seven rebounds, going 3-7 from three. In the win against LivOn, he had 12 and six, going 3-3 from beyond the arc. Blackwood is a strong and lengthy forward who consistently finds production in his own way.”