Why Noblesville guard Baron Walker picked Butler: 'Can't really see myself anywhere else'

Indianapolis Star

30-07-2025

When Baron Walker was going through the recruiting process, his parents told him 'go somewhere where you are going to be wanted.'
Staying home, as it turned out, was the most appealing option.
Walker, a 6-3 senior-to-be, committed to Butler on Tuesday night, just three hours after receiving an offer from the Bulldogs. Walker took a visit to campus Monday and 24 hours later became the Bulldogs' first commit in the 2026 class.
'It just feels like home,' Walker said. 'Obviously it's not too far, but it feels like it's somewhere I want to be and I feel like I can succeed there and really help out with whatever they are trying to build.'
Walker averaged 15.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game and earned a spot on the Junior All-Stars team last season, shooting 50% from the field, 40.2% from the 3-point line (37-for-92) and 82% from the free-throw line.
But with most colleges recruiting the transfer portal first, Walker did not pick up his first offer until Indiana State in May. Several more followed: Bellarmine, Boston University, Central Michigan, IU Indy, Wright State, Ball State, Belmont, Miami (Ohio), Montana and SIU-Edwardsville offered prior to Butler.
'I was in contact with (Butler) after the FORUM Tipoff Classic in December,' Walker said. 'I talked to them a little bit throughout the season and going through that live period with the Charlie Hughes (Shootout in June), they showed a lot more interest. I went down to campus before and saw them practice… ultimately for me, I just felt like it feels like home. I know that I want to go there and can't really see myself anywhere else.'
Though the offers did not come until a little later than expected, Walker said he was confident in himself. He credited his parents, along with Noblesville coach Scott McClelland and his coach Grand Park Premier, Dustin Smith.
'Obviously that portal is crazy,' he said. 'It kind of downgrades high school recruiting for a lot of kids. But I think for me just sticking my head down and grinding and just trusting the process (was important). I give a lot of credit to both my parents. They helped me and gave me all the confidence I need.'
What type of player is Butler getting in Walker? His shooting numbers across the board are outstanding, particularly considering the competition Noblesville faces throughout the season. Walker is more than just an offensive standout. He is often tasked with guarding the best player on the opposing team, a trait that stood out to the Butler staff.
''Winning' was said a lot,' Walker said. 'A lot of guys are winners, but I just feel like going out there and doing my job — whatever that is, going out there and guarding the other team's best (player) or having to go out there and score — ultimately that's what I would say. Just bringing a guard to help the team succeed.'
Butler coach Thad Matta has had success recruiting Central Indiana in recent seasons, getting commitment from Brebeuf Jesuit guard Evan Haywood (will be a sophomore) and incoming freshmen Azavier 'Stink' Robinson from Lawrence North and Bryson Cardinal from Guerin Catholic.