Top-150 recruit Parker Jefferson commits to Minnesota

Parker Jefferson, a three-star center in the 2025 class, told On3 he’s committed to Minnesota.

The 6-foot-10 senior out of Inglewood High School (CA) ultimately chose Ben Johnson and the Gophers over USC.

Jefferson, a native of Texas, is the nation’s No. 142 overall prospect, No. 12 center and No. 17 recruit from California in the 2025 cycle according to the On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Jefferson becomes Minnesota’s third commitment this cycle, joining three-star SG Jacob Ross (No. 140 nationally) and three-star SG Kai Shinholster (No. 271).

Jefferson on his commitment to Minnesota

Parker Jefferson discussed his decision with On3.

“I chose Minnesota because I feel like since day 1 I was a main priority to them and they really surprised me and my family with the quality of people in the program and they think I can have a big impact as a freshman.”

What led to his trust in the coaching staff?

“Coach Johnson and his staff from day one have had such a real and genuine feel to them and they’ve expressed that they believe in my talents. They want me to come in as a freshman and play. They also run a lot of sets through their bigs and they see me as a quarterback in their offense.”

In his own words, what type of player is Minnesota getting in Parker Jefferson?

“I’m a very versatile big who can stretch the floor, push it in transition, and my passing is one of my best qualities. I’m just a competitor who wants to win at the end of the day.”

He has a message for Minnesota fans.

“I’m excited to be a Gopher and I look forward to playing in front of all the fans at the Barn! SKI U MAH!”

Scouting Report

“Parker Jefferson has good size with a frame that projects as he continues to mature. He has good hands, very passer friendly, and can receive passes in traffic. His range extends beyond the three-point line with consistency. The athleticism will be a question, but he is still young with a September 2006 birthday. As he continues to grow, there is a skill and IQ foundation to build on. His mother played at Arkansas.” – On3’s Jamie Shaw