Tom Izzo and Michigan State Secure Commitment from Elite Guard Deron Rippey Jr.
In a significant win on the recruiting trail, Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo has landed a major commitment from Deron Rippey Jr., a highly touted 6’1″–6’2″, 175-pound point guard from Blair Academy in Blairstown, New Jersey. Rippey, one of the premier playmakers in the 2025 class, chose the Spartans over powerhouse programs such as Kentucky, North Carolina, and Indiana.
The announcement came Sunday night and immediately created buzz across social media, as Spartan fans celebrated a commitment that could help define the future of the program. For Izzo, it’s another impressive addition to a growing legacy of elite guard development and recruiting success.
Rippey has earned national recognition for his explosive quickness, tight handle, and sharp court awareness. Known for his ability to control the tempo, score efficiently, and defend with intensity, Rippey is seen as a perfect fit for Izzo’s demanding system. His maturity and leadership qualities have drawn comparisons to former Michigan State stars like Cassius Winston and Mateen Cleaves.
Michigan State had to battle some of college basketball’s most storied programs to land Rippey. Kentucky, under the direction of new head coach Mark Pope, made a strong push late in the process. North Carolina’s Hubert Davis and Indiana’s Mike Woodson also prioritized Rippey heavily, offering full scholarship packages and making high-profile visits. But in the end, Izzo’s long-standing reputation for developing guards—and his honest, no-nonsense approach—won Rippey over.
“Coach Izzo has been straight with me since day one,” Rippey said after announcing his decision. “He didn’t just sell me a dream; he showed me a plan for how I can grow as a player and as a person. That meant everything to me.”
Rippey brings a gritty, high-IQ style of play that fits perfectly with the culture Izzo has built in East Lansing. He thrives in the open floor, makes smart decisions in pick-and-roll situations, and brings a toughness on defense that will be welcomed in the Big Ten. His leadership qualities and willingness to do the little things have made him a favorite among coaches and scouts alike.
“He’s not just a talented guard—he’s a winner,” said one national recruiting analyst. “Rippey impacts the game in so many ways. He makes teammates better, he defends at a high level, and he has that ‘it’ factor. Michigan State got a true gem.”
Rippey’s commitment gives Michigan State a strong foundation for its 2025 recruiting class. With several top-tier targets still considering the Spartans, this could be the start of something special in East Lansing. His decision is also a powerful reminder that Izzo’s program continues to resonate with elite recruits in an era dominated by NIL deals and transfer portal headlines.
While Izzo has hinted at coaching for several more years, Rippey’s addition suggests that the legendary coach is still very much at the top of his game on the recruiting front. His ability to land a player of Rippey’s caliber—especially in competition with blue-blood programs—is a testament to Michigan State’s staying power.
As Rippey prepares for his senior season at Blair Academy, all eyes will be on him to see how his game continues to evolve. For now, though, Spartan fans can celebrate the arrival of a potential program-changing talent—one who seems poised to leave his mark in East Lansing
