Forget the chatter of possibly skipping college. DeAndre Ayton made it clear Tuesday evening that college "is a must." Now, the world knows where he will attend next fall.

Arguably the top prospect in 2017, the 7-footer from Hillcrest Prep (AZ) is headed to Arizona.

"We really trust [the coaching staff], and we trust their program," the elite big man told ESPN's Sportscenter following his announcement. "I know that they can help me get to the next level."

In a surprising move, both in timing and decision, Ayton chose Sean Miller's Wildcats over other finalists Kansas and Kentucky. He is the second member of Arizona's 2017 recruiting class, and will join Corona Del Sol (AZ) point guard Alex Barcello.

"It's been rough, to be honest," the Bahamas native told the network of the recruiting process. "Phone call after phone call, trying to do homework, staying in the gym."

Ayton, who played for the California Supreme AAU program and compares his game to Kevin Garnett, no longer has to worry about where he is going. He is committed, and the only thing ahead is more spotlight.