Another thought, sorry if I missed it in here, is I wonder if when Jacobson reclassified and then wanted to commit, if redshirting was openly talked about?
Purdue also new they wanted to take Harris at the time, so maybe it was presented as he would be a walk-on with potential NIL compensation his freshman year, and guaranteed a scholarship the next season, similar to a gray shirt in football.
Seeing how Purdue develops 7 footers, it's a win-win for both parties, as Jacobson will get to Purdue a year early to work with coaches and practice, and it allowed Purdue to sign Harris when he was ready to jump on board at a much higher position of need. The NIL piece would offset any potential financial loss to the family for tuition
Purdue also new they wanted to take Harris at the time, so maybe it was presented as he would be a walk-on with potential NIL compensation his freshman year, and guaranteed a scholarship the next season, similar to a gray shirt in football.
Seeing how Purdue develops 7 footers, it's a win-win for both parties, as Jacobson will get to Purdue a year early to work with coaches and practice, and it allowed Purdue to sign Harris when he was ready to jump on board at a much higher position of need. The NIL piece would offset any potential financial loss to the family for tuition