Coaches hit the ground running with 2026 wing Marco Mattucci as soon as the contact period opened for the class of 2026. Mattucci said Bowling Green, Kent State, Toledo, Marshall, and Evansville all reached out to him directly, and he was expecting a few more calls from programs such as Miami, Duquesne, and Ohio.

“It’s kind of surreal knowing these schools are so interested,” he explained. “I started playing the game for fun, and it’s starting to take me places I could’ve never imagined a few years ago. I’m just extremely excited and grateful for these opportunities that are starting to come my way.”

There is a lot to like about the 6-foot-4 wing, but coaches have zeroed in on his shooting ability. There is much more to his game, but his shooting certainly sets him apart. Back in May at the UAA Session II, he helped his team Nova Village to a 4-0 record while averaging 21 points per game and shooting an impressive 54 percent from three-point range.

“My game is constructed around my shooting. That is definitely what coaches enjoy most about my game,” he said. “I have had multiple 30-point games this AAU season on single-digit dribbles, and although I can handle it, my team allows me and all of our other guys to play to our strengths.

“I am also a sneaky athlete and will go up and dunk on someone as I’m not afraid of contact.”

As his recruitment heats up, Mattucci remains open to all suitors, with location playing a minor role in his decision-making process. He’s all about finding the right fit.

“Location doesn’t really make a big impact as of right now,” he said. “I want to go to a college where I fit in their system rather than just staying close to home.”

Once more programs witness his talent firsthand, expect a flurry of interest. He’ll continue to run with Nova Village on the Under Armour circuit for the rest of the summer.

Currently, Mattucci is the leading scorer for his team and boasts a remarkable shooting percentage well above 40 percent from three-point range.

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