EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Alvin Ellis III will be joining Michigan State's recruiting class after he was released from his commitment to Minnesota.

The 6-foot-4 guard was in Minnesota's recruiting class, but was released his letter of intent because coach Tubby Smith was fired.

Ellis averaged 20 points, six rebounds and four assists last season for Chicago De La Salle High School. He and Gavin Schilling, who signed to play for the Spartans last week, were teammates when they were juniors. Michigan State knows one key player will be back next season and is waiting for another one to make a decision.

Big Ten freshman of the year Gary Harris announced last week he is staying in school. Adreian Payne faces an April 28 deadline to enter the NBA draft or return for his senior season.