Michigan State has added a big-time piece to its frontcourt, landing a commitment from four-star center Jaydn Jenkins.
The 6-foot-10 big man from Archbishop Wood in Pennsylvania is ranked No. 64 nationally in the class and picked the Spartans over NC State, Xavier, Pitt and Ohio State.
Jenkins arrives with a reputation that fits right into what Michigan State wants in the paint. He’s considered one of the top shot blockers in the country, and his length, timing and rim protection give the Spartans a real interior presence.
247Sports Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein described Jenkins as “a long and athletic big man who plays a run and jump style.” Finkelstein noted that Jenkins has “a massive, 7-foot-4 wingspan, broad shoulders, quick feet and bounce,” and called him “one of the best rim protectors in the class, particularly when he's coming from the weakside of the floor.”
There’s plenty to like on the defensive end, but the report also makes clear that Jenkins still has room to grow. Finkelstein said he is “still lean though and needs to add a significant amount of strength through his chest.”
Offensively, Jenkins doesn’t profile as a go-to scorer, but he does bring value as a lob threat, rim runner, roller and offensive rebounder. Finkelstein also pointed to “some subtle passing instincts” and said Jenkins is “naturally unselfish.” At the same time, he added that Jenkins “can sometimes lack the mentality to dominate, even when he's the mot talented player on the floor.”
His shooting remains a work in progress. Finkelstein wrote that Jenkins is “also not a shooting threat away from the basket or consistent free-throw shooter (39% in EYBL play).”
Defensively, the ceiling is obvious. Finkelstein said Jenkins “can block shots with both hands,” and that his length and feet could eventually make him versatile enough to handle ball-screens and even multiple positions. He also pointed out that Jenkins is strongest when chasing rebounds, though “he's not always committed to doing that (2.8 defensive rebounds per game).”
The scouting report closed with the same basic theme: the tools are real, but so is the development ahead. As Finkelstein put it, Jenkins has “clear tools with his length, athleticism, shot-blocking prowess, and finishing ability,” but still needs strength, a steadier motor and “the mentality to change the game every time he's on the floor.”
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