“He (Izzo) flew down to Canada quite a few times to watch me play in a practice setting,” Boakye said. “That meant a lot, and he’s a head coach. His assistant coaches came down to see me, but him as a head coach coming down to see me, that meant a lot to me.”

Boakye joins Max Christie and Emoni Bates as the latest five-star recruit to commit to Michigan State in the last month. Boakye is also considered by 247 Sports to be the highest rated prospect from Canada for the 2022 recruiting class.

According to Boakye’s AAU and high school basketball coach, the Canadian big man could consider reclassifying to the 2021 class, joining Christie and Pierre Brooks II in the 2021 recruiting class. That however, would have the Spartans one scholarship over the limit for the 2021 season, meaning one student-athlete would need to depart the program via transfer or NBA Draft to make room. If Bates were to reclassify as well, they would then need two.

With Boakye’s commitment, Michigan State will now have Boakye, Julius Marble, and incoming freshman Mady Sissoko leading the frontcourt for the 2022 season.

Boakye is described by 247 Sports as a center with an “impressive frame,” body control and a major impact player around the basket with his size and work ethic.

With these new big time recruits, Boakye believes they can compete at the highest level.

“From day one, I’m looking to come in and win a national championship right away,” Boakye said.