Centerville’s Reggie Powers III has recently pledged his collegiate allegiance to Michigan State, with his father attributing this decision to the feeling of belonging in East Lansing. Reggie Powers III Commits to Michigan State.
“‘This feels like home,’ is how he described it to his mom and me on Friday night and Saturday morning,” shared Reggie Powers II, adding that they supported their son’s choice wholeheartedly.
Powers III, who had received more than 30 scholarship offers, narrowed down his options to five by the end of May. He had conducted official visits to Pittsburgh and Northwestern in June before landing at Michigan State. Although visits to Cincinnati and Ohio State were lined up for the following fortnight, Powers III decided they were no longer required after his positive experience at MSU.
“So it blew him away as far as the location, how it’s set up, the ability to have an early impact and how he related with the players,” Powers’ father said. “That was really the most important. He enjoyed the coaches, too, but like how he felt like he fit in with the athletes. Because each visit is a little different because different locker rooms, different culture. So none of them were bad. He never had a bad experience, but it was like this one is like I felt like home.”
Interestingly, Michigan State was the last to offer Powers a scholarship. A fortuitous connection with veteran secondary coach Harlon Barnett during the GWOC recruiting showcase in early May turned the tide in their favor. Reggie Powers III Commits to Michigan State.
The interaction between Powers III and Barnett was instant and sustained, with Powers II stating, “they talked probably almost every day.” Coach Barnett and head coach Mel Tucker envision Powers playing their nickel safety position and also anticipate his immediate contribution to special teams, which impressed the young athlete.
“His smile and great attitude are infectious, and he’s a pleasure to be around and coach,” Ullery added. “He has worked incredibly hard to get to where he is, and he’s very deserving of the opportunities that he has. We couldn’t be happier for Reggie and we look forward to watching him have another great season before moving on to the next level.”
As Powers III prepares to seize the opportunities that await him at the collegiate level, he remains focused on delivering another spectacular season at Centerville. He is one of three local prospects committed to a Power 5 school and plans to join the Big Ten in 2024.