By Make5Media Staff | October 17, 2026
Missouri strengthened an already promising backcourt class Friday, while George Mason landed one of Georgia’s most talented perimeter prospects.
Devin Cleveland committed to Missouri over Michigan and TCU, giving Dennis Gates another skilled guard for the Class of 2027. In Loganville, Georgia, Grayson standout Marcus “M.J.” Curry Jr. chose George Mason, bringing the Patriots a combination of size, shooting and athleticism that should translate well to the Atlantic 10.
Cleveland Adds Shot-Making to Missouri’s Backcourt
Cleveland, a 6-foot-3 combo guard at La Lumiere School in Indiana, joins Scottie Adkinson and Cameron Barnes in Missouri’s 2027 recruiting class. The Chicago native gives the Tigers a scorer who can make defenses pay for leaving him space.
His jumper is the first thing opponents have to account for. Cleveland can connect off the catch, pull up off the dribble and make shots while moving. That shooting threat also creates chances to attack a defender closing out too aggressively. He has touch around the basket and enough craft to find scoring angles without having to overpower his matchup.
For Missouri, the potential pairing with Adkinson is worth watching. Having two guards who can handle the ball would give Gates more ways to initiate offense and keep either player from carrying every possession. Cleveland’s ability to work away from the ball could be particularly useful alongside another creator.
There is still work ahead. Adding strength and becoming more selective with difficult shots will matter against SEC defenses. But Missouri has secured a guard with an offensive skill set that gives the staff several options as it builds toward the 2027-28 season.
Curry Brings Size and Athleticism to George Mason
George Mason’s addition of Curry is a significant recruiting win. The 6-foot-5 Grayson wing committed after visiting the Patriots, having also taken trips to UAB and Sacramento State.
Curry can change a possession quickly. He covers ground with long strides, attacks the rim and has the lift to finish above defenders. His improving ability to knock down perimeter shots will make him more difficult to contain as he develops; defenders cannot simply back off and wait for the drive.
That combination could give George Mason a versatile offensive piece. Curry projects as someone who can run the floor, finish a play created by a teammate or punish a late closeout. He does not have to dominate the ball to become a problem.
His defensive potential is very intriguing. His length and athleticism give him the tools to challenge perimeter players, help on the glass and contest shots from behind a play. Turning those tools into consistent defensive production will be an important part of his development.
For the Patriots, this is an opportunity to develop a wing whose game can grow in several directions. Curry arrives with scoring ability and physical gifts. Greater strength, a tighter handle and more experience making reads could make him an increasingly difficult matchup in the Atlantic 10.