Maryland's Ekezie Recruitment Heats Up

0:00On April 25, Maryland's Chase for five-star center, Obena Akaze Jr. just got a big boost. The 7-foot, 215-pound prospect from the nation's top juniors canceled his visits of Michigan this weekend after they grabbed a 7-foot 2-center from the transfer portal. That move likely drops Michigan from the mix, leaving Maryland, Arkansas, and Louisville as the main players. Akaze has visited all three recently, including Maryland during the season. He's weighing a commitment this spring, and reclassifying to the class of 2026 to play next year. His dad, Obena Sr., came from Nigeria as a raw recruit, became a thousand-point score under Coach Gary Williams, and even played six years in the NBA after getting drafted. The family loves Maryland's fan base. Even after a tough 11-21 season in Buzz Williams' first year, they shrugged off a blowout loss to Purdue, praising how supporters stick around. Akaze Jr. calls Maryland a top option because of that legacy,

1:02and Williams has made him priority number one. Sources say landing him could cost around $2 million in name, image, and likeness deals. Arkansas under John Calipari is pushing hard after missing transfers, while Louisville just got the top portal guy, but still wants Akaze as a power. Forward. Maryland has an open spot and could build a monster front court with him. With minutes open at forward and center, and Akaze eyeing a one-and-done path to the NBA where he can pass, shoot threes, and post up this. Recruitment feels ready to pop any day now.