Josh Leonard, the 6‑foot‑7 forward who captured the South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year award for the second consecutive season, is set to leave his home state for a new challenge. Ranked among the nation’s top‑40 prospects by 247Sports Composite, On3 and ESPN, Leonard brings a rare blend of size, skill and production to the next level of his career.
Leonard will spend his final high school year at IMG Academy in Florida, a move that underscores his willingness to chase the most competitive environment as he prepares for college basketball. The transfer marks a significant chapter in a career that has already delivered impressive statistics: 22.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, 2.8 steals, 2.5 assists and 1.5 blocks per game last season.
Recruiting Landscape Shifts
The news comes as several powerhouse programs — including the University of South Carolina, Clemson, Tennessee, North Carolina State, Michigan, Ole Miss and Mississippi State — have all courted Leonard’s talents. Yet, despite the buzz, the prospect has not yet committed to any institution for the Class of 2027, leaving the recruiting picture wide open.
Leonard’s departure follows a broader trend among South Carolina’s elite talents. Players such as Julian Phillips, Dillon Jones and Collin Murray‑Boyles have previously finished their senior seasons out of state, only to carve out professional pathways in the NBA. Their journeys illustrate how stepping beyond state borders can serve as a springboard to higher visibility and opportunity.
The ripple effect of Leonard’s move extends beyond individual careers; it signals to future generations that the path to national recognition often runs through premier prep schools like IMG Academy. As recruiting analysts watch closely, the decision may influence how top prospects in the Palmetto State evaluate their own futures.