With the summer grassroots season now complete, we are starting to make the move into commitment season. One of the first from Illinois’ 2026 class to make their commitment was Michael Nee. On Tuesday, the 6’3” guard of Glenbard East High School and Breakaway Basketball made his commitment to South Dakota.
Over the past few months, Nee has been one of the fastest rising guards in the regions 2026 class. He didn’t receive his first college offer until May which came from division two Lewis University. His first division one offer only came last month from Dartmouth. South Dakota offered him a few weeks ago at the end of July. He has also been offered by Eastern Illinois and Iona over the past few weeks.
While the recruitment of Nee was just heating up, he didn’t feel the need to wait any longer to make his decision. He said that South Dakota checked all his boxes on why he decided to commit now. “They have a great and supportive coaching staff that will help me develop my game along with top-of-the-line facilities. Also, the small town of Vermillion just felt like home to me when I stepped on campus. So, with all that being said, there’s really no reason to wait in my eyes.”
Nee took his visit to South Dakota recently at the end of July. “It was great, all of the players and coaches were very welcoming and made it feel like home,” Nee said about his trip to Vermillion.
“First and foremost, I love the coaching staff,” Nee said about his selection. “They all make me feel very wanted and valued. I also love South Dakota’s amazing facilities and nice setup in a small town.”
For his future playing for South Dakota, Nee sees his game fitting in very well. “They are a team that likes to play fast and get out in transition. I think my shooting ability will add a lot to their transition scoring.”