The Evolution of High School Basketball Recruiting

While college basketball increasingly leans towards the transfer portal and international prospects, July remains a pivotal month for high school recruiting. The summer evaluation periods have gained even more significance with the addition of June evaluation slots, but July is still crucial for coaches to observe top talents in competitive settings.

Tyran Stokes: The Unchallenged Leader

Tyran Stokes, a 6-foot-7 forward, continues to dominate the 2026 class rankings. His performance with the Oakland Soldiers and his role in USA Basketball's gold medal run at the FIBA U19 World Cup have solidified his position as the top prospect. Despite the competition from elite players like Jordan Smith and Christian Collins, Stokes maintains a significant lead.

The Slow Commitment Cycle

This year's recruiting cycle is notably slower, with only one five-star prospect committed so far. The primary reason is the shift in focus towards the transfer portal and international recruits. Programs are prioritizing immediate roster needs over future high school recruits, leading to a delayed decision-making process.

Top Programs Making Moves

Arkansas, under coach John Calipari, has made an early impact by securing the commitment of in-state five-star prospect JaShawn Andrews. Other programs like Iowa State, Marquette, Baylor, and Ohio State are also making strides with early commitments.

Future Commitments to Watch

Jason Crowe, a newly minted top-five prospect, is set to announce his commitment on July 18. Kentucky, USC, Missouri, and Texas are all in the mix, making this one of the most anticipated decisions of the cycle.

Duke's Continued Dominance

Under coach Jon Scheyer, Duke remains a powerhouse in recruiting, aiming for their third consecutive No. 1 class. With offers out to several elite prospects, the Blue Devils are well-positioned to continue their success.

Emerging Breakout Stars

Several players have risen through the ranks this spring, including Bryson Howard, Arafane Diane, Maximo Adams, and Quinn Costello. Their performances have catapulted them into the top 50 of the ESPN 100, making them ones to watch this summer.

Where Coaches Will Be

Coaches will be traveling across the country to attend key events like the Nike Peach Jam, Adidas 3SSB Championships, and the NBA Academy Games. These events provide a platform for top high school talents to showcase their skills in front of college scouts.

Conclusion

The 2025 high school basketball recruiting cycle is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent years. With top talents like Tyran Stokes leading the way and programs adapting to new recruiting strategies, the future of college basketball looks brighter than ever.