Mario Kegler to Mississippi State: Bulldogs Land 4-Star SF Prospect

Coveted small forward Mario Kegler reportedly decided on Wednesday to continue his basketball career at Mississippi State under Ben Howland. It's a massive addition to the Bulldogs' 2016 class.

ESPN's Jeff Borzello passed along word of the prospect's college choice.

Borzello also noted this commitment moves Howland's first recruiting class to No. 7 overall and No. 1 in the SEC.

Kegler is a 4-star prospect who ranks inside the top 35 for the class of 2016, according to 247Sports' composite rankings. The outlet also notes he's the top recruit coming out of Mississippi and that he received nearly two dozen offers before making a decision.

He's a high-upside recruit with a lot of room to grow, both literally and proverbially. He must add more bulk on his frame and round out his offensive game with a more consistent jump shot, but the tools are there for him to become the prototypical modern small forward who does a little bit of everything.

Jim Halley of USA Today provided some thoughts from the rising star on what he was trying to prove at an NBA Top 100 Camp in June.

"I feel like I am a 2 or a 3 in college," Kegler said. "I need to work on my ball-handling and knocking the three down. Out here, I just want to show I can play, that I'm better than they say I am. I am kind of like the sleeper in the class. Everyone I play against, I'm going after."

He's certainly at his best right now when attacking the rim at the offensive end. It's a positive sign that he understands there's work to do if he's going to reach his potential, though. Players who understand their weaknesses are usually easier to coach.

While Kegler could slide right into the starting lineup, his best role at the outset might be as a spark plug off the bench. He could bring some energy to the court, and it would likely help take some of the pressure and expectations off his shoulders.

One thing's for sure: the Bulldogs will be looking for players to step up come next fall. Their top three returning scorers for the 2015-16 campaign—Craig Sword, Gavin Ware and Fred Thomas—are all seniors. They are going to lead a major offensive void and the Oak Hill Academy standout will arrive at the right time to help fill it.

All told, Kegler is a terrific addition to the 2016 class and should make his presence felt quickly.