2027 SF Marcus Spears Jr. Talks UVa offer, busy summer

Virginia has extended an offer to one of the top players in the 2027 class, Marcus Spears Jr., the No. 8 overall prospect in the class of 2027. The rising junior out of Dynamic Prep (TX) continues to build momentum on the national stage and is now firmly on UVA’s radar.

“It was really cool to get that offer,” Spears told CavsCorner. “I was able to talk to some of the coaches when they offered me, and they actually really started talking to me on June 15th. They watched me this past weekend at TABC during the last June Live Period, and they liked what they saw, which ultimately led them to offer me. They told me that they see a lot of potential in me.”

Spears said the message from Virginia’s staff has been consistent and encouraging.

“They think my game would be able to fit into their system because of how fast they like to play. They let a lot of their guys rock out, and they would let me do that to a certain extent.”

That approach resonates with Spears, who thrives in an up-tempo style.

“I always play super hard, and I like to play in a fast playing style. I always love to play defense and get out in transition and try to finish above the rim as much as possible. I am starting to develop a more offensive, rounded game in the halfcourt and just working on the development of my jumper from the perimeter and looking to create more off the dribble.”

Though Spears admits he doesn’t know a ton about UVA yet, he’s eager to learn more about the program and Head Coach Ryan Odom.

“I don’t know a whole lot about the program, so I am excited to learn more. The coaches did tell me, though, that they are one of the most winning programs in the ACC. I also know that Virginia has gotten players to the NBA, and so has Ryan Odom at some of his previous schools that he coached at, so it is a good situation there at Virginia.”

Spears is coming off a massive spring and early summer, highlighted by a gold medal run with Team USA.

“It has been a really good summer so far. I got to play with Team USA, and we won the gold medal at the U16 AmeriCup, and that was a great experience. It has also been a good spring and summer on the EYBL Circuit with Drive Nation.”

When the calendar hit June 15, the first day college coaches could directly contact rising juniors, Spears’ phone lit up immediately.

“Ever since Midnight hit on the 15th of June, my phone has been hot. I have been hearing from coaches every day, I am hearing from new coaches all the time, and I am really enjoying the process. Some of the schools that have been talking to me a lot since then are “Duke, Kentucky, Houston, Virginia, Texas, SMU, Arizona, Miami, and some others.”

Despite the buzz, Spears is staying patient when it comes to making a college decision.

“I am going to take my time when it comes to making a college decision. Whenever my parents and I think that I am ready to commit, that is when I will make a decision.”