Markeese Hastings, a 6-7 forward from Wyoming, Mich., has signed a national letter of intent to join the Butler men's basketball program beginning with the 2018-19 season. Butler coach LaVall Jordan made the announcement Friday, Nov. 17.

"Markeese has worked diligently to improve himself as a player," said Jordan. "His best basketball is certainly ahead of him. He has good length and a high motor, which should enable him to help us on the boards and defensively. More importantly, he exemplifies the values that our program stands for. He's excited to be at Butler and we're excited that his family is joining our Basketball family." 

As a junior at Godwin Heights High School, Hastings averaged 14.6 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 blocks, and 2.1 assists. Hastings comes from a strong program as Godwin Heights won a Michigan Class B state title during his freshman season and posted a 22-2 record during the 2016-17 campaign under coach Tyler Whittemore.

Hastings has a wingspan that stretches beyond his 6-7 frame. The versatile player was called upon to guard the opposing team's best player regardless of that player's position throughout last season, according to Whittemore.

Butler, which is 2-1 on the young season under first-year coach Jordan, continues play Saturday at home against Furman. The contest is officially the opening round of the Phil Knight Invitational as the team will play three games in Portland, Ore., beginning Thanksgiving Day as part of the PK80 event.