The Arizona State men’s basketball program got some great news on Wednesday. Akil Watson, a 4-star forward from Roselle (NJ) Catholic, has committed to coach Bobby Hurley and the Sun Devils.

The 6-foot-8, 205-pound power forward chose the Sun Devils over Illinois, Creighton, and DePaul, among other programs.

Watson is Arizona State’s first known commitment in the 2023 cycle. He rates as a 4-star in the industry-generated 247 Composite. The rangy forward ranks as the 26th prospect at his position and the 120th overall prospect in the class.

He plays for a powerhouse program in Roselle Catholic. The New Jersey squad went 29-2 last season en route to their fourth NJSIAA Tournament of Champions crown in the event’s final year and the No. 4 spot in the final MaxPreps Top 25 Rankings of the season. The program also captured titles in 2013, 2015, and 2018. Watson shares a frontcourt with Duke commit and 5-star forward Mackenzie Mgbako.

You can see some of his highlights below: