5-star SF Mackenzie Mgbako requests release from NLI with Duke

Roselle (N.J.) Catholic five-star small forward Mackenzie Mgbako has requested a release from his National Letter of Intent with Duke, he tells On3.

The 6-foot-8 Mgbako committed to the Blue Devils back in April, beating out the likes of Kentucky, Ohio State, and Memphis. He signed with Duke in November, joining a five-man class that also included five-stars Caleb Foster, Sean Stewart, and Jared McCain, and four-star TJ Power.

Mgbako provided the following statement to On3:

“After long thought, prayers and discussions with my parents and trusted advisors, I am writing to formally request a release from my NLI to Duke University.

“While I have great appreciation and respect for the Duke coaching staff and fans for their interest in me, I feel that there will be other places for me to continue my basketball journey, so I will be re-opening the recruiting process to all schools. Sending a big thanks to all my supporters, friends, and family for continuing to show love.”

He ranks as the No. 6 overall prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Mackenzie Mgbako Scouting Summary

“It is all about the jump shot. The release is consistent, high, and soft. Mgbako steps into it confidently off the catch and his balance is right on. Then you see the positional size at 6-foot-8/6-foot-9 and you see the attraction. Past the jump shot, Mgbako attacks closeouts in a straight line. His handle is average, his hips seem a little stiff, and he is a slightly above average athlete. Despite each of these being a concern moving forward, the shooting and the confidence are very real traits here and he rebounds his area. Mgbako has consistently performed at a high level is big settings.” — Jamie Shaw, On3 national recruiting analyst