Houston Basketball: Jacob McFarland commits to Cougars, Kelvin Sampson

Moreno Valley (Calif.) Rancho Verde four-star recruit Jacob McFarland tells On3 he has committed to Houston.

McFarland, 6-foot-10 class of 2023 center, ultimately chose the Cougars over Georgia and Wyoming. He also received scholarship offers from USC, Providence, Nevada, and others.

The big man from out west is Houston’s third commitment to the class. He joins four-star PF Joseph Tugler (No. 57) and four-star CG Kordelius Jefferson (No. 112).

McFarland ranks as the No. 99 prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Consensus, the average ranking from all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also ranked as the No. 9 center in the class.

Jacob McFarland on his commitment to Houston

“I chose Houston because it felt the most natural,” McFarland said to On3. “Right away I could tell it’s super family oriented and for me going away for college was one of the most important things for me. The players really accepted me and we really bonded over the course of the visit. Even with the other guys on visit Jojo and Kordel, we all meshed with each other. The entire coaching staff made me feel at home from the coaches to the managers. Coach Sampson has done a terrific job putting together a wonderful staff. I feel like Coach Sampson is a legend. One of the things I liked about Coach Sampson was he reminds me of my high school head coach Johny Dukes. Throughout this journey, I was trying to find my next Dukes because he’s such an amazing coach and I found that in Coach Sampson.”

What type of player is Houston getting?

“A hardworking team player,” McFarland says. “The team’s main philosophy is defensive and that’s my favorite side of the floor. I really pride myself on the defensive end. I will do everything in my power to help us win games and help them get better each and every day.”

Additionally, McFarland has a message for Houston fans.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the people, being involved in community outreach, and being a part of the city of Houston. I can’t wait to play in front of you all and last but not least, GO COOGS!”