Marquette Basketball Adds Rising 2027 Forward Philipe Ndong to Recruiting Class

Marquette’s men’s basketball program has secured its second commitment in the 2027 recruiting cycle, landing a pledge from Philipe Ndong, a 6-foot-8 forward out of the Newman School in Massachusetts. Ndong announced his decision via social media on Sept. 5.

The forward has been one of the faster-rising prospects in his class and previously collected scholarship offers from programs including Creighton and South Florida. He joins Marlon Martinez, a 6-5 guard, in a 2027 class that is taking shape early under head coach Shaka Smart. Ndong took an official visit to campus in June.

Deep New England Prep Ties

Newman School competes in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC), a league that has become familiar territory for Marquette’s staff. Former Golden Eagles including Tyler Kolek, Chase Ross and Tre Norman came through NEPSAC programs, as do current freshmen Alex Egbuonu and Colton Crowdis.

Last season, Ndong averaged 13.3 points per game for Newman. On the AAU circuit, he suited up for the Middlesex Magic on the Under Armour circuit — a program with NBA ties that also produced Kolek and former Milwaukee Bucks guard Pat Connaughton. Under Armour (NYSE: UAA), which trades at $5.19 with a market cap near $2.19 billion, sponsors the grassroots circuit where Ndong sharpened his game.

Scouting Outlook

Marquette’s coaches view Ndong as a long-term developmental piece whose frame will need added strength before he can handle Big East physicality. Still, his combination of size, basketball IQ and feel has drawn internal comparisons to Oso Ighodaro, the former Golden Eagles standout now with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns.

Ndong checks in at No. 97 in the 247Sports composite rankings for the 2027 class, and his perimeter touch stands out: he shot 38% from three on more than four attempts per game during the Under Armour season, while connecting on 79% of his free throws.

Another layer to the story: Ndong’s father had a brief NBA stint, part of a basketball pedigree that factored into Marquette’s recruitment.

What to watch

• Whether Marquette adds a third member to its 2027 class as the evaluation period continues.
• Ndong’s development and physical maturation at Newman School this coming prep season.
• Updates to his 247Sports composite ranking as the 2027 cycle progresses.

Source: original release