Josiah Legree opts to remain a 2024 prospect and commits to Indiana State

August 10, 2024 by Colby Giacubeno

It's been quite the six-month stretch for Josiah Legree, an electrifying lead guard out of Baltimore, Md. Rewinding back to February, Legree went on a tear in the Baltimore Catholic League playoffs in which he acted as the catalyst for St. Frances Academy making their championship run. He'd take home BCL Most Outstanding Player honors along with the conference championship. Fast forward to July and he was a key piece to Team Thrill completing their 17U title run and while he was planning on reclassing to the 2025 class, Legree has now decided to remain in 2024 and announce his commitment to Indiana State.

Legree spoke with MADE Hoops about what went into pulling the trigger early with the Sycamores.

"The relationship I built with one of the coaches," Legree told MADE. "He was recruiting me last year at the school he was at but I didn't feel like that school was right situation for me. We kept in touch throughout my process and he got a new coaching job. Talking with him and the others on the coaching staff, I felt the relationship with them was the right fit for me. Also, the resources they have will make me a better student athlete on and off the court."

The coach that Legree is referring to is Tim Johnson, who was at Furman last season and joined the staff at Indiana State in May. Furman was heavily monitoring Legree and his success at St. Frances. We've seen plenty of situations that are similar to this given the landscape of the recruiting cycle as there are more opportunities for high school seniors to snag opportunities late in the summer due to roster necessities of certain programs. 

Legree continued to explain why Indiana State was presented as the best situation for him this upcoming season.

"Indiana State University's basketball program is appealing due to its strong tradition, competitive spirit, and dedicated fan base. The program's focus on developing my talent and creating a team environment that makes us attracted to the same goals for players and coaches to reach together . My relationship with the staff has grown through consistent communication, shared goals, and a mutual commitment to the program's success."

The Sycamores are in need of a dynamic, playmaking guard in their backcourt stable who can produce right away, but also one they can groom into an all-around point guard for years to come. Legree fits that mold.

"The staff has big expectations for me this year. They're taking a chance on a freshman who is undersized. They want me to be a leader, create for others, but also use my scoring ability and take my winning abilities and use them at this level . My ability to adapt quickly to different environments by using my athleticism, IQ, defensive intensity with their strategic approach will not only contribute positively to team dynamics, but also will help me take my game to another level. My commitment to improving and supporting our team goals would complement their emphasis on fundamental play and teamwork."

Legree will enroll immediately at the school and arrive to campus next week to begin his college career. He has a healthy amount of experience playing on big stages against top notch competition.