Over the past few months, 2027 combo guard Markese Peoples of St. Laurence High School and Young & Reckless has been one of the fastest rising players in the entire Midwest. His recruitment came to a close this week with his commitment to Central Michigan University. Over the past few months, Peoples has emerged as one of the top recruits in Illinois’ 2027 class.

Back in April, Peoples had extremely limited recruitment. It wasn’t even until May when he received his first collegiate offer which came from Ball State. Then over the next two months his recruitment started to take off as he received several more division one offers. These came from Iona, Toledo, and Sam Houston State. Central Michigan had offered him recently just last month in the middle of June.

Over the past several months, the game of Peoples really took off. It started with his junior season at St. Laurence in which he averaged 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals. He led them to the sectional semifinals and was named 4A second team all-state by the IBCA. His high level of play only continued to grow greatly into the grassroots season with Young & Reckless. Early in the grassroots season in April at the NY2LA Swish N’ Dish tournament, he was named a top performer while leading his team to the platinum semifinals.

Central Michigan is landing a guard with a unique blend of abilities. He is a true two-way guard with a very strong build that plays with plenty of toughness. He is a highly competitive player who can excel on the court in a variety of ways. Peoples thrives as a physical, downhill driver being able to play and finish through contact. As well, he has also grown with his abilities as an outside shooter and facilitator. He has shown to be shut down defender with his intensity guarding the ball. With all that he can do on the floor, look for him to make an immediate impact in his freshman season for the Chippewas.

Peoples marks the first commitment for Central Michigan and head coach Andy Bronkema’s 2027 recruiting class.