"I don’t want to go into a toxic environment": When SMU target and No. 1 high school basketball prospect from Oklahoma opened up about his recruitment

Oklahoma's top basketball player, Jalen Montonati, will be in attendance for the SMU Mustangs' game against the Duke Blue Devils on Saturday. This latest trip adds to the speculation regarding the four-star prospect's commitment decision.

Last year in an interview with On3's Jamie Shaw, Montonati disclosed the factors he considered while choosing his destination:

"I’m looking for a good culture, I don’t want to go into a toxic environment. My end goal is to get to the NBA, but with my time in college, I want to compete for a National Championship. ... I’m looking to go into a family atmosphere."

However, it won't be easy for SMU head coach Andy Enfield to recruit the hooper, as several programs including USC, Indiana, and Oklahoma are eager to have Montonati.

The Owasso High hooper praised Kansas's culture and spoke about Indiana's aura in his interview with On3. He also said that his dad's alma mater, Oklahoma State was like a "big family" to him.

"I’ve been going to Gallagher Arena since I was a little kid," Montonati said. "You know since my dad played there. Being around everyone there, it’s like a big family. The historical success that Eddie Sutton had there and the impact he had at Oklahoma State for a long time is inspiring."

Jalen Montonati shines for Owasso High

Four-star prospect Jalen Montonati is a celebrated player at Owasso High. In his sophomore year, Montonati averaged 25.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game over 10 games per MaxPreps. He was a part of the gold-medal winning Team USA at the 2023 FIBA U16 Men's Americas Championship.

Montonati won the title of Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Oklahoma for the 2023-24 season.

Oklahoma based journalist Jordan Davis praised the small forward and wrote:

"Jalen Montonati is Oklahoma’s only five-star prospect—and that’s for good reason. He’s only a sophomore, but has already staked his claim as one of the state’s most electrifying players in history. His preeminent skillset was on full display... as he willed Owasso to a state title.

On December 19 last year, at the 2024 City of Palms Classic, Montonati recorded 28 points and nine rebounds and led Owasso to a 64-60 win over Long Island Lutheran.