**OFFICIAL: 7’9” American No. 1 Star Shocks College Basketball World, Flips Commitment to Duke Over Powerhouse Programs Florida, NC State, Alabama**

**OFFICIAL: 7’9” American No. 1 Star Shocks College Basketball World, Flips Commitment to Duke Over Powerhouse Programs Florida, NC State, Alabama**

In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, 7-foot-9 American high school phenom *Jalen Monroe*—the consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2025 class—has officially flipped his commitment to **Duke University**, spurning several powerhouse programs including Florida, NC State, and Alabama.

The news was confirmed early Wednesday morning in a statement released on Monroe’s social media platforms, where he wrote:

> “After deep reflection and conversations with my family, I’ve decided to decommit and pursue my college career at Duke University. This wasn’t easy—but I believe Duke is where I’ll grow the most as a player and a person.”

Monroe, a once-in-a-generation prospect with unprecedented height and mobility, originally committed to Florida earlier this year. At 7’9”, he is believed to be the tallest player to ever commit to a Division I basketball program. His combination of shot-blocking, floor-running, and surprising agility for his size has drawn comparisons to NBA legends like Rudy Gobert and Kristaps Porziņģis—only taller.

### Why Duke?

According to insiders, Monroe was swayed by Duke’s proven track record of developing elite talent for the NBA, the legacy of big men success (like Paolo Banchero and Marvin Bagley III), and a strong connection with head coach Jon Scheyer. The Blue Devils’ emphasis on both academics and athletics also reportedly played a role in the Monroe family’s final decision.

Recruiting analysts had pegged Alabama and NC State as strong contenders leading up to the switch. Alabama, in particular, had pitched Monroe on a fast-paced system that would showcase his growing perimeter skills, while NC State emphasized local loyalty and an opportunity to be a program-changing star. However, Duke’s late push proved irresistible.

### Impact on College Basketball

This commitment could alter the balance of power in the 2025–26 season. Monroe is not just a dominant force in the paint—he’s also showing rapid development in his shooting, passing, and defensive awareness. Some scouts believe he could be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft if his college season meets expectations.

His commitment bolsters an already loaded Duke recruiting class, potentially making the Blue Devils early favorites for the national title next year. Monroe’s presence will not only draw national media attention, but also significantly impact ticket sales, television viewership, and even NIL opportunities.

### What’s Next?

Monroe is expected to officially sign with Duke during the early signing period this fall. In the meantime, fans, scouts, and sports analysts will be watching closely as he prepares for his final high school season, where he is already averaging 27 points, 15 rebounds, and 6 blocks per game.