Class of 2023 forward Justin McBride of Plano Senior High School (TX) and Drive Nation (TX) has committed to Oklahoma State over Missouri and Arizona State in his final three. McBride joins Jamyron Keller, Brandon Garrison, and Connor Dow as the fourth commitment in Mike Boynton’s ‘23 recruiting class.
A gold medalist at the 2021 FIBA U16 Americas Championship, McBride averaged 7.7 points and 5.5 rebounds to help USA to a perfect 6-0 record. This past summer, he boosted his stock at the Peach Invitational Tournament registering 33 points against Team Melo (MD) and averaging a productive 16.8 points and 6.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, which ultimately resulted in earning an offer from OSU. Besides bringing positional size, the 6’8” forward has a high motor, competes on the defensive end, and is a catch-and-shoot threat from deep. McBride finishes his senior year back home in Texas after a stint at Oak Hill Academy (VA) in the NIBC.
McBride spoke with Pro Insight’s Conrad Chow about his decision:
Pro Insight: Talk about your basketball journey thus far. How did you get to where you are today?
Justin McBride: It’s been an extremely long journey for me. My dad introduced the game to me at an early age at three years old, playing in all the PSA leagues in Plano and Garland and then going on to Drive Nation. Once I got into middle school, the game became easier for me. It was such a surprise, but also a joy when Coach [Steve[ Smith reached out and asked me to play at Oak Hill a few years ago. At Oak Hill, I was able to grow a lot as a man in the classroom and on the basketball court. Now, I will finish my senior season back home in Plano.
PI: You’re back in Plano to finish your senior year, what made you decide to return home?
JB: Just to have my last year to be a kid and enjoy the public high school experience. I wanted to come home to finish out and be with my family — that was a huge part being able to return home and play with my guys.
PI: What are your goals this season, both individually and as a team?
JB: I want to continue to be the best person I can be on the court and in the classroom. The accolades along the way would be to make the McDonald’s All-American team and do my best to fulfill my senior year. As a team, it would be to see how far I can help take Plano in the state playoffs.
PI: When it came down to it — what were the most important factors in choosing your next step?
JB: The play style was an important factor for me such as playing transition basketball. I thrive well playing up and down the floor. Where I chose is close to home too, and they give players the freedom to play basketball.
PI: Who did you lean on for guidance throughout the process?
JM: I leaned on my dad a lot because we went over all the pros and cons. We did homework and went on visits to the schools together. He was there with me every step of the way.
PI: Without further ado — where will you be playing next season?
JM: I will be committing to Oklahoma State University!
PI: Congratulations! What separated Oklahoma State from the rest of your options?
JM: Everything. The facilities, the playstyle, the coaching staff. I felt comfortable and at home here.
PI: What was Coach Boynton and his staff’s reaction when you told them?
JM: They were so happy and excited! Coach Boynton and the staff invited us to a BBQ with the whole team during my official visit there. They connected with me and were ecstatic when I told them.
PI: Have you been in touch with any former or current OSU players?
JM: I had a chance to talk to Chris Harris Jr., who is currently a senior guard at OSU and from South Garland, TX.
PI: What is OSU getting in Justin McBride?
JM: OSU is getting a player that can push the ball in transition and make plays — a great player, better student, and an even better person who plans to be involved in more than just basketball at OSU.
PI: What is something you would like OSU fans to know about you outside of basketball?
JM: I’m really just a laid back guy and I’m excited to get involved with the community as well.
PI: What are you hoping to work on between now and getting to campus?
JM: I hope to be on a different level for Big 12 basketball. I will be working on all aspects of my game.
PI: Lastly, do you have any message for the OSU fans who are thrilled about your commitment?
JM: You’re getting a player dedicated to the sport, a hard worker in practice, a gym rat, and someone who is extremely coachable. I plan to finish my degree and I can’t wait to work! Go Pokes!