Mac McClung talks Rutgers commitment

The Rutgers men’s basketball program landed a big-time commitment to day when point guard Mac McClung (Gate City, Va.) announced his plans to become a Scarlet Knight.

McClung told Scarlet Nation what led him to that decision.

“The biggest thing was the coaching staff at Rutgers. Coach [Steve] Pikiell and the rest of the staff were so authentic. Coach Pikiell was a former point guard so he understands that aspect of the game and what I want to accomplish and everything like that.”

Pikiell was also the first to know of McClung’s pledge.

“I first told Coach Pikiell, the head coach about the commitment over the phone. We talked for a long time just about everything,” McClung said. “I just told him I was all in and I am committed to Rutgers Nation and he screamed. After that, one of the assistant coaches called me after that and he screamed too, it was a good feeling.”

McClung also has some big plans for his future at Rutgers.

“I know people are afraid to say, but I want to win a national championship and win the Big Ten. I want to put Rutgers back where they should be,” McClung said.

He is also trying to help Rutgers land a talented four-star who has RU in his final two.

“I’ve talked with Montez (Mathis). I reached out to him and we talked a while back before I even had a Rutgers offer,” McClung said. “I liked him and I would love to play with at the next level.”

McClung held upwards of 30 offers, but also made noise for his ability to dunk the basketball.

“It was surprising to be on Sport Center’s Top 10. I didn’t know until one of my friends called me and said I was on the top 10 with a dunk. I was like ‘what?’ And it kind of just blew up after that.”

However, McClung is not looking to stay complacent in terms of his play.

“Actually, I didn’t have my best summer, but I’ve had some nice dunks. I’ve learned a lot on how to play with some better players. I’ve had some ups and downs but I think I got a lot better.”