Grand Rapids Christian’s Jaylan Ouwinga commits to Toledo

Grand Rapids Christian’s Jaylan Ouwinga shoots a 3-pointer against Warren De La Salle on Jan. 21, 2023. (Photo | Lenny Padilla).

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Grand Rapids Christian big man Jaylan Ouwinga has committed to play basketball at the University of Toledo. 

“I’m really excited about committing,” Ouwinga said on Thursday. “I felt like it was the time for me. Some people commit later in their senior year. But this was the best for me and a good time to do it.”

Ouwinga, a 6-foot-8, 200-pound senior forward, said his top three schools were Toledo, Western Michigan and Akron.

“They’ve been there from the beginning,” Ouwinga said of Toledo. “I have a great opportunity and I hope I can impact the team. I love the coaching staff a lot and a good place that I can call home the next few years.”

Ouwinga, the son of Jimeeka Ford and Robert Ouwinga, said his family is happy with his choice.

“My family is very excited” he said. “They are very proud of me. Since I’ve been going on (college) visits they thought (Toledo) is where I’d be going.”

Toledo, which is coached by Tod Kowalczyk, won the Mid American Conference championship with a 16-2 record and were 27-8 overall.

Jaylan Ouwinga blocks the shot of Cam Ryans during a pick-up game in Grand Rapids on Aug. 14, 2023. (Photo | Lenny Padilla).