The article discusses the upcoming basketball recruiting period, highlighting key storylines such as upcoming commitments from top prospects, the status of No. 1 Tyran Stokes, potential moves by recruiting powerhouses, Missouri's position at the top of class rankings, new entrants to the rankings, the impact of first-year coaches, and recruits likely to wait until spring to decide.
Five-star small forward Anthony Thompson, ranked No. 8 overall in the 2026 basketball class, has committed to Ohio State, marking one of the program's top recruiting wins since 2000. The Lebanon, Ohio native is known for his scoring ability, versatility, and impressive wingspan, making him a significant addition to the Buckeyes' roster.
Arafan Diane, a top-ranked 2026 center and four-star recruit, has narrowed his college choices to 12 schools, with Houston currently favored, and has scheduled official visits to Arkansas, Kentucky, and Houston.
Justin Pippen, son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, has committed to playing basketball for the University of Michigan, choosing the Wolverines over Cal, Florida, Stanford, and Texas A&M. The 6-foot-3 combo guard, a late breakout in his high school career, was impressed by the campus and the coaching staff at Michigan, particularly new coach Dusty May. Pippen's family fully supports his decision, and he is seen as one of the most improved prospects in the nation. This commitment marks the first pickup for Michigan since May's arrival, and the Wolverines are also pursuing several transfers.
Dylan Harper, the No. 2 recruit in the Class of 2024 and the top uncommitted senior in the country, has committed to Rutgers, giving the Scarlet Knights two of the top three recruits in the nation and the No. 2 overall recruiting class. Harper, a 6-foot-5 guard, chose Rutgers over Duke, Kansas, Indiana, and Auburn. He joins a recruiting class that already includes Airious "Ace" Bailey, ranked No. 3 in the ESPN 100. Harper's older brother, Ron Harper Jr., was a star player at Rutgers, and his advice played a role in Dylan's decision. Rutgers has made Harper a priority and was relentless in its pursuit of the in-state guard. Harper is known for his fundamental skills, playmaking abilities, and leadership qualities.
Cooper Flagg, a highly touted 16-year-old basketball player from Maine, has chosen to play for the Duke Blue Devils, a move that has generated both excitement and controversy. Flagg is considered one of the most athletically gifted talents to fit the mold of previous white basketball players at Duke, but with a unique skill set that sets him apart. While Duke has faced criticism in the past for its legacy and racial makeup, Flagg's arrival may signal a shift in the narrative surrounding the program. With the changing landscape of college sports and the rise of NIL money, Flagg's time at Duke is expected to be short-lived as he follows the path of other NBA-bound players. However, his presence on the court is likely to spark intense debate and media attention.
A.J. Dybantsa, the top prospect in the 2026 recruiting class, has announced his decision to reclassify to the 2025 class, putting him in contention for the No. 1 ranking in the junior class and making him a favorite for the top pick in the 2026 NBA draft. Dybantsa, a 6-foot-8 wing from Massachusetts, is known for his scoring ability and has impressed coaches and scouts with his versatility and athleticism.
Five-star basketball recruit Darryn Peterson expressed excitement on Instagram about West Virginia University's acquisition of Eastern Michigan transfer Noah Farrakhan. Peterson, currently ranked as the second-best recruit in his class, has received offers from numerous schools including West Virginia. Farrakhan, who averaged 12.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists at Eastern Michigan, will need a waiver to compete in the 2023-24 season for WVU.
247Sports has released a pair of Crystal Ball predictions for football and basketball recruiting, while also providing updates on the transfer portal. The website offers rankings, commitments, and player searches for both sports, as well as news feeds and team rankings.