Michigan State basketball signs four-star PF/C Jesse McCulloch

Michigan State basketball is set to sign all three members of their class of 2024 on Nov. 8. The first letter of intent came from four-star power forward/center Jesse McCulloch, of Cleveland (OH) Lutheran East High School.

The 6-foot-9, 215-pounder has been committed to Michigan State since April of 2023. On3 ranks McCulloch a four-star, the No. 105 overall recruit. He is also ranked the No. 21 power forward and the No. 3 recruit in Ohio.

He has taken countless visits to East Lansing, most recently for the exhibition matchup against Tennessee. The four-star took his Michigan State official visit in September during ’Grind Week’.

McCulloch is joined by Manchester (N.H.) Bradford Christian Academy four-star SG Kur Teng and four-star PG and Michigan State legacy Jase Richardson in signing on Nov. 4. The Spartans continue their pursuit of five-star SF Bryson Tucker.

McCulloch originally committed to Tom Izzo and the Spartans over offers from Ohio State, Michigan, Alabama, Virginia Tech, Xavier, Indiana, and others.

“I chose Michigan State because of the way they make me feel like it’s home,” he said to On3. “I love the way coach Izzo and the rest of the staff communicate to me and my family.”

On the floor, McCulloch is known for his physicality, forcing his way into the mix around the basket. With over a 7-foot wingspan, the four-star plays big, with a smooth jump shot, stretching the floor on both sides of the court.

“They love the way I can shoot the ball,” McCulloch said. ”That is the biggest thing. They love the way I can stretch the floor out. Especially with the Big Ten going through a change when I come in. My year there is going to be UCLA, USC, Oregon, Washington, they all come into that conference so they like the way I can stretch the floor.”

“I would say I’m a vocal leader. A four-man that can stretch the floor and pass very well and plays hard on defense.”