A point guard by position, he gained recognition as an All-American and remained a consistent four-year starter during his time at the University of Indiana. Long before he became a household name in college basketball, he first captured national attention when he was recruited to play for Indiana while still in the 8th grade—an incredibly rare feat that set him apart from his peers at a young age. Hailing from the small town of Heltonville, Indiana, his journey from a promising youth athlete to a collegiate standout was nothing short of remarkable.
As a high school senior, he earned the title of USA Today and Naismith Prep High School Player of the Year, and was also named Mr. Basketball USA.