In one of the most jaw-dropping twists of the 2025 college basketball offseason, five-star phenom Jalen Haralson has flipped his commitment from Notre Dame to West Virginia University. Yes, you read that right — the All-American, McDonald’s All-Star, and one of the most highly-coveted recruits in the nation is taking his talents to Morgantown.
And the college hoops world? Completely blindsided.
The Star Power: Who Is Jalen Haralson?
Standing at a versatile 6-foot-7, Haralson is far more than a stat sheet. The La Lumiere (IN) standout has been a nightmare matchup for years — a positionless forward with elite ball-handling, a silky jumper, and the court vision of a seasoned point guard. Whether it’s breaking down defenders off the dribble or locking down the perimeter, Haralson does it all.
Recruiting services pegged him as a top-10 national talent, and for good reason: he’s a two-way menace with an NBA-ready frame and the intangibles of a future pro.
Notre Dame’s Loss Becomes WVU’s Treasure
Haralson’s original commitment to Notre Dame was hailed as a historic win — the highest-ranked recruit in program history and a foundational piece for Micah Shrewsberry’s rebuilding efforts. But just as Irish fans began to dream of deep March runs, Haralson pulled the ultimate reversal.
In a move that was as swift as it was stunning, Haralson announced he would instead be committing to West Virginia — a program with a proud tradition, rabid fan base, and a hunger to reclaim its place atop the Big 12.
“West Virginia just felt right,” Haralson said in a brief statement. “I want to be somewhere that matches my energy, toughness, and work ethic. Morgantown gave me that feeling. It’s time to make some noise.”
WVU’s Big-Time Win in a New Era
This isn’t just a recruiting victory — it’s a power shift. WVU, entering a new chapter post-Bob Huggins, is proving it’s not just rebuilding — it’s reloading.
Haralson gives the Mountaineers an immediate centerpiece — a player who can change games, elevate teammates, and bring national attention back to the Coliseum. It’s the kind of seismic pickup that alters expectations, not just for the team, but for the entire conference.
His presence will bolster a Mountaineer squad already buzzing with emerging talent and high-level transfers. The blueprint for WVU basketball just got a massive upgrade — and fans are already dreaming of deep runs and sold-out arenas.
Ripple Effects Across the Country
For Notre Dame, the loss is brutal. Haralson was supposed to be the cornerstone of a recruiting resurgence. Now, the Irish are scrambling to pivot as one of the biggest names in their future plans just walked out the door.
For the Big 12? The arms race just got even more intense. Programs like Kansas, Baylor, and Houston now know they’ll be facing a five-star freight train in conference play.
And for college basketball as a whole — this is the latest reminder that the new era of NIL, branding, and program culture means nothing is set in stone until the ink is dry and the jersey is on.
Final Word: WVU Just Went from Contender to Threat
Jalen Haralson’s decision to flip from Notre Dame to West Virginia isn’t just a headline — it’s a warning shot.
The Mountaineers are back in the spotlight. And with a generational talent like Haralson on board, they aren’t coming quietly.
Morgantown just became must-watch basketball again.
