Transfer Update: Mackenzie Mgbako Declares for NBA Draft, Leaving Indiana Basketball

In a major development for Indiana men’s basketball, freshman forward Mackenzie Mgbako has announced that he will be declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft, opting to forgo his remaining years of college eligibility. The decision marks the end of a brief but impactful stint in Bloomington and sets the stage for the next step in Mgbako’s basketball career.

Mgbako, a highly touted recruit, was one of the crown jewels of Indiana’s 2024 recruiting class. A consensus five-star prospect, he was expected to make an immediate impact for the Hoosiers, providing much-needed depth and versatility to the team. At 6-foot-8 and with the ability to play multiple positions, Mgbako’s skill set was a major asset for head coach Mike Woodson, who had high hopes for him in the upcoming season. His smooth shooting stroke, basketball IQ, and athleticism made him a player with enormous potential, and his decision to leave after just one season certainly comes as a surprise to many.

Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Mgbako showcased his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. His shooting touch from beyond the arc, combined with his defensive prowess and rebounding ability, had made him one of the most intriguing young players in the Big Ten. While he still had areas of his game that could be developed, there was no doubt about his immense talent and the potential for a successful professional career. In fact, several NBA scouts had already expressed strong interest in Mgbako, citing his versatility and upside.

In a statement released on social media, Mgbako shared his gratitude for his time at Indiana and for the support he received from Coach Woodson, his teammates, and the Hoosiers’ fanbase. “I am truly thankful for my time at Indiana and the experiences I gained in such a great program,” Mgbako wrote. “I have learned a lot and am proud to have been part of a team that has such a rich tradition. After careful consideration, I believe the best path for my career is to pursue my dreams of playing in the NBA. I will always be a part of the Hoosiers family and will continue to support the program.”

His decision to enter the NBA Draft comes after a solid freshman year where he showed glimpses of his potential but also had to adjust to the physicality and speed of college basketball. It’s not uncommon for highly ranked players like Mgbako to make the leap to the NBA after just one season, especially when they have the tools to succeed at the next level. With several scouts projecting Mgbako as a first-round talent, his decision to leave school early comes as no surprise given the current trend of players entering the draft after their freshman year.

For Indiana, Mgbako’s departure is a tough blow. The Hoosiers were counting on his talents to be a key part of their lineup as they aimed to compete for a Big Ten title and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. His versatility would have allowed him to play both forward positions, adding depth to an already talented roster. With Mgbako now gone, Coach Woodson and his staff will need to adjust their plans and possibly look to the Transfer Portal to fill the void left by his departure.

The Hoosiers will also have to recalibrate their expectations heading into the 2025-2026 season. While the loss of Mgbako is significant, the program still boasts a talented group of players, including other highly regarded recruits and returning veterans. Coach Woodson has been known for his ability to adapt and develop players, and it’s likely that he will continue to focus on building a well-rounded team that can compete at the highest level.

As for Mgbako, his future looks bright as he prepares to take the next step in his professional career. The NBA Draft is loaded with talent, and many experts believe that he has the potential to make an immediate impact at the next level. His blend of size, skill, and athleticism gives him the tools to succeed in the modern NBA, where versatility and the ability to play multiple positions are highly valued.

The news of Mackenzie Mgbako’s decision to enter the NBA Draft marks the end of an era for Indiana basketball, at least for the time being. As the Hoosiers adjust to life without one of their star recruits, they will be eager to see how the next generation of talent steps up to fill the void left by Mgbako’s departure. But for the young forward, the future is filled with limitless possibilities as he takes his game to the next level.