Clovis West top football recruits Marshel Sanders, Landon Wright commit to colleges

Two of the state's top recruits will go separate ways after Sanders picks Fresno State and Wright pledges to Washington State

UPDATED 8:45 p.m.

FRESNO, Calif. — Two of California's top all-around football athletes — planted in the middle of the state — announced their college choices on Friday.

Clovis West (Fresno) three-star wide receivers Marshel Sanders and teammate Landon Wright announced their college choices in a joint ceremony in Fresno in front of family, friends, and media.

Sanders, ranked the No. 66 top overall senior recruits in California announced his commitment to hometown Fresno State.

Sanders chose the Bulldogs over Oregon State and Arizona State.

“The offense excited me a lot and I am loving the education that they are giving me,” Sanders said. “Everything around there (Fresno State) was a family. I just felt that was the best spot for me.”

Sanders and Fresno State offensive coordinator Pat McCann have been talking about what the future may hold for him as a Bulldog.

“We just talked so he can get to know me, and I can get to know him,” Sanders said. “We have been talking about trying to build something for Fresno State. Coach McCann said he could do a lot for me, and I believe him and feel I can go far in the program.”

Wright, ranked No. 83, announced his commitment to Washington State University. He picked the Cougars over Fresno State and Colorado State.

Marshel Sanders (left) and Landon Wright put on their respective college caps Friday in a commitment ceremony in Fresno. Photo: Chris Aguirre / Photo by Chris Aguirre

“A big reason I chose Washington State because when I took my visit, I felt a big family atmosphere. I felt like I would be a great fit at Washington State.” Wright said.

Wright also said that he liked the small-town vibe that Washington State has.

“It is a small city and that’s what I like,” Wright said. “I want zero distractions just so I can play football go to school and hopefully make it into the league one day.”

The Clovis West teammates are game breakers. 

• WATCH: Live announcement

Sanders, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound wide receiver and safety, had 60 catches for 1,098 yards and 14 touchdowns, all team highs last season for the 10-2 Golden Eagles.

Wright, a 6-1, 185-pound receiver and cornerback, had 42 catches for 776 yards and eight touchdowns.

Sanders and Wright join their teammate Jordan Pierro as Division I commits. Pierro committed to Fresno State in June.Another Clovis West Eagles Tytus Khajavi also has committed to Fresno State.

Sanders said that he is excited to continue to play with his teammates at Fresno State.

“It means a lot to be able to play with those two again, being with them as a team it feels great and is amazing,” Sanders said. “We can stay home make a family and build on to the culture because I think in the next few years, we have something dangerous coming to Fresno State.”

Marshel Sanders (5) caught 14 passes in 2022.  / Photo by Bobby Medellin

Landon Wright (14) scored eight touchdowns in 2022, including this one against Buchanan. Photo: Bobby Medellin.