Collingwood<\/a>\u00a0to talk about his decision, how he fits in the Bulldogs\u2019 system, what excites him most about competing in the SEC, and more.<\/p>\n\u201cMississippi State just showed me the most love throughout the entire recruiting process,\u201d Collingwood said. \u201cThey have a great plan for me both on and off the court. During all of my visits, I felt the most comfortable there. I really enjoyed the vibe, and I bonded really well with the coaches and the players I met. It\u2019s a real family environment.\u201d<\/p>\n
When asked about how the coaching staff envisions his role in Starkville, Collingwood said they\u2019ve made it clear how much they value his versatility and athleticism.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe staff has broken it down in many ways on how I will fit into their system. They really like my athleticism and think that I can fit in their system in multiple ways. They are going to have me come off a lot of ball screens, they are going to let me get out in transition, they are just going to get me a lot of shots in their system, and most importantly, just let me be myself. On the defensive end of the floor, they just want me to be that junkyard type dog and use my physicality to slow down the opposition.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mississippi State head coach Chris Jans has already drawn some comparisons for how Collingwood\u2019s game translates.<\/p>\n
\u201cCoach has compared me to a lot of players. Cameron Matthews is one in particular. He\u2019s coached a lot of different guys, so there are pieces of several players that he sees in me.\u201d<\/p>\n
During his visit, several aspects of the program stood out, both on and off the court.<\/p>\n
\u201cOff the court, I really enjoyed meeting with the academic staff. I want to major in business, so getting to talk with the people who lead that program was great. On the court, what really stood out was how hard they went during practice. The intensity is real, that\u2019s the kind of environment I want to be part of.\u201d<\/p>\n
Collingwood also expressed excitement about joining one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt just means a lot to be able to play in arguably the best league in the country. I wanted the opportunity to showcase the player I can be in the best conference in the country so I am really blessed. I am excited to show everybody the work that I have put in.\u201d<\/p>\n
Now with his commitment behind him, Collingwood is focused on continuing to develop his game.<\/p>\n
\u201cI just want to keep improving as a ball-handler and become a more consistent shooter. I also want to make better and quicker decisions with the ball. I\u2019m just trying to grow every part of my game.\u201d<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n