Kentucky basketball is actively pursuing the No. 1 overall recruit in the class of 2026, Tyran Stokes, a versatile wing with plenty of potential that has scouts excited for his future.
Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report, NBA TV, and Turner was talking about Stokes in a recent article, ranking him No. 1 overall in his “Top 30 Prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft Class.” Wasserman believes Stokes’ combination of elite physical tools and skill set will translate to the next level.
Stokes has drawn comparisons
to NBA stars like Jayson Tatum, Scottie Barnes, and Miles Bridges, thanks to his size, athleticism, and scoring versatility, according to Wasserman. This makes sense, as Stokes has dominated internationally, finishing the summer with his third FIBA gold medal and a standout EYBL season with the Oakland Soldiers.
Tatum would especially be a great outlook for any prospect, as he is one of the 10 best players in the world when healthy. But Barnes is also an All-Star-caliber player.
At the U19 World Cup, Stokes shot 70.6 percent from the floor, recording a rare triple-double in just 24 minutes against Jordan. In Peach Jam, he emerged as the second-leading scorer and top rebounder, showcasing growth in creation, shot-making, and off-ball vision.
On the court, Stokes’ one-on-one game, advanced footwork, and rhythm dribbles for pull-ups make him a difficult matchup at every level. His secondary playmaking and three-level scoring ability make him a prototype NBA wing, while his continued development in high school and elite circuits keeps him No. 1 in the class of 2026 and potentially the No. 1 overall draft pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.
According to 247 Sports’ Travis Branham, the race for Stokes is a three-way battle, with Kentucky, Kansas, and Oregon for his commitment. Kentucky’s pursuit of Stokes and potential commitment could help bring the No. 1 overall recruitment class in just year two under Mark Pope.
