/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67027390/usa_today_12476585.0.jpg)
On Tuesday, the Michigan State Spartans got some exciting news as elite 2021 prospect Max Christie announced that he would be committing to the program. He is the second major pickup for Tom Izzo and his staff over the last week as the nation’s top recruit in 2022 (Emoni Bates) also recently committed to the Spartans.
Five-star guard Max Christie tells @Rivals that he has committed to #MichiganState https://t.co/lE9DmmOW5t pic.twitter.com/Yrm5GzFTeb
— Eric Bossi (@ebosshoops) July 7, 2020
Christie is listed as 6-foot-6 and 165 pounds by 247Sports and comes out of Rolling Meadows, Illinois. He is rated as the top player in the state and as the nation’s 12th best player in the 2021 recruiting class by 247Sports. Along with Michigan State, he also had offers from Baylor, California, DePaul, and Duke among others.
In terms of skill set, there’s a lot to like about Christie’s game and it’s easy to see why he’s so highly regarded by the scouting services. He has an impressive handle, can drive through defenders, and has the ability to pull up from deep as well. The best parts of Christie’s game rely on his length and size, which allows him to shoot over defenders. He still needs to get stronger, bigger, and improve his play in the lane.
With Christie’s commitment, Michigan State’s class is now ranked fourth nationally and features two top 70 prospects. Pierre Brooks is also a member of the class. However, it’s hard to view the 2021 class without the shadow of Bates’ commitment as well. Obviously, Izzo and his staff have things rolling on the recruiting trail right now.
Izzo and his staff still have their work cut out for the 2021 class, but Spartan fans have to be excited about bringing Christie into the fold.