Tom Izzo, MSU land four-star PF over Maryland, Kansas State and Virginia

“I chose Michigan State because of the atmosphere, the family atmosphere. The love and support that they show towards their players and just the support system they have. The coaches support them, all the way up to the managers. They have a bond, a strong bond there. I honestly think that it’s the best fit for me," Ward told On3 regarding his decision."

Much of Ward's decision-making process came down to his connection with Izzo. He relayed that Izzo was consistently on him on the recruiting trail, so much so that the 69-year-old head coach came to visit him at a game just a few days after his surgery. 

"I was like, ‘Man, I gotta play for this guy’ because he’s just such a legendary guy. Everyone respects him and I’d be a fool not to go play for coach Izzo," Ward said. "He gets people to where they need to be. He trains them hard, but he also shows tough love that everybody can get down with. So I love that part.”

Ward checks in at 6-foot-7, 210 pounds and is ranked as the No. 11 power forward in the nation, according to 247Sports.

Maryland, Kansas State and Virginia were in his final group, but he also boasts offers from the likes of Marquette, Alabama, Notre Dame, Florida State and others.