By JAMES MADDEN AND SAM LANCE
Chris Jans and Mississippi State landed one of the class of 2026’s biggest hidden gems in July 2024, when 6-foot-10, 215-pound forward Ladarius Givan announced his commitment to the Bulldogs. Givan attends John Marshall High School (VA) and is playing summer ball with Team Loaded of the 3SSB circuit.
Givan is a do-it-all big man and has continued to make winning plays for his teams on both ends of the floor. He prides himself on his ability to be a force on both ends of the floor knock down outside shots when needed.
“What makes me unique is, at 6’10, I’m a very good passer, good defender on bigs and guards and I can hit the trey ball,” Givan told ZAGSBLOG. “I can stretch the floor and I know how to get my teammates open.”
He knew from an early point in his recruitment that Starkville may in fact be a place he would like to call home, which led to Givan committing to Mississippi State during the summer entering his junior year.
“I was on a visit and I was watching them practice and just how he connected with the players, it was just outstanding,” Givan said. “He knows your game and you know him as a coach, and it’s just trusting each other. I feel like trust is the biggest thing in the game of basketball.”
Givan has continued to build relationships with other members of the program and is trying his best to get comfortable with the culture in Starkville.
“But my relationship started with Coach (George) Brooks. That’s who started with me,” Givan said. “We’ve got a very good bond. That’s my guy.”
Givan is looking forward to returning to campus and visiting with the players and coaches at some point this fall.
“Yes sir. Hopefully very soon. I’m ready to get back down there and meet the new guys,” he said.
Bulldogs fans are getting someone that is much more than a dominant force in the paint, but someone with a fun personality and a love for life.
“I feel like the fans should know I’m a very outgoing person,” Givan said. “I’m very goofy and I just like to have fun. I feel like the fans will love me.”
Givan said he models former NBA player Monta’ Ellis’ pre-game ritual by putting his hand in wax before a game.
He is ranked a four-star and is a top-125 recruit in the class of 2026 according to 247Sports.
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