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Former NBA All-Star's son Jermaine O'Neal Jr. commits to Andy Enfield's SMU for the class of 2025: REPORTS
Four-star small forward Jermaine O'Neal Jr., the son of former NBA legend Jermaine O'Neal, has committed to SMU's 2025 class. The standout at Dynamic Prep High School in Texas chose SMU over Vanderbilt.
According to TCU alum Marcus Sloan, O'Neal Jr. is a "GreaterLater" prospect, recognized for his steady growth and development on the court each year.
The 6-foot-6, 175-pound prospect is ranked by 247 Sports as the No. 149 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 32 small forward in the 2025 class and the No. 9 recruit in Texas.
ESPN places him as the nation's No. 88 overall prospect, the No. 20 small forward in the class and the No. 12 recruit in the state.
O'Neal's commitment to SMU comes a decade after his father's retirement from a stellar NBA career that spanned from 1996 to 2014. Jermaine O'Neal Sr. earned six All-Star selections and three All-NBA team honors during his time in the league.
Jermaine O'Neal Jr.'s decision is another recruiting win for SMU's new coach, Andy Enfield, who left USC to lead the Mustangs. He has a track record of landing high-profile recruits, especially the sons of NBA stars.
He previously recruited Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, at USC, as well as DJ Rodman, the son of NBA legend Dennis Rodman.
Jermaine O'Neal Jr. amazed by the exposure at SMU
Jermaine O'Neal Jr. made an official visit to SMU on Sept. 7. He received interest from multiple schools, including Texas, where his sister Asjia played volleyball from 2018 to 2023, but the Mustangs captured his attention.
"First and foremost, their move to the ACC was a major attraction for me," O'Neal told 247 Sports. "The ACC is, without a doubt, one of the most prestigious conferences in college basketball history. The level of competition and exposure it provides is second to none."
SMU’s location in Dallas was also crucial for O’Neal Jr., as the city’s vibrant basketball culture offers him the chance to build his brand.
From the coaching staff to the track record of sending players to the NBA caught his attention. He also thinks SMU provides a "perfect environment" for his development.
"I believe they can help me reach my full potential because the love and support I've received from the SMU staff has been unparalleled.
"They see something special in me and I am eager to prove myself during my senior year and beyond. Their belief in my ability to make an immediate impact while continuing to develop my game is incredibly motivating," he added.
Jermaine O’Neal Jr. becomes SMU's first pledge in the 2025 recruiting class, currently ranked No. 26 nationally.
Per reports, they are also in run to get four-star center Jaden Toombs, one of O'Neal’s close friends and teammates. The school is further targeting uncommitted small forwards such as Shelton Henderson, Shon Abaev, BJ Davis-Ray and Jasir Rencher.
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