Taylen Kinney, a 6-foot point guard from Newport, KY, has announced his top 15 schools as his recruitment intensifies. Despite his smaller stature, Kinney’s dynamic play and high basketball IQ have cemented his status as the No. 4 point guard in the 2026 class and a five-star composite player according to 247Sports. His top 15 include Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Cincinnati, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kansas State, Louisville, Notre Dame, Oregon, Purdue, Tennessee, and Xavier. Check out UK's placement in his top 15 announcement photo:
Taylen Kinney, a top-20 recruit in the 2026 class, announced his top 15 schools on Instagram.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) December 25, 2024
The 6-2 Point Guard out of Kentucky received nearly 40 scholarship offers. https://t.co/dmVNusntuY pic.twitter.com/Xtibbo1XhT
Fans are hoping, and speculating that it is not just coincide. Currently playing for RWE in Overtime Elite (OTE), Kinney is having a standout season. Nine games in, he is averaging 22.1 points, 4.6 assists, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals a night. The efficiency has been particularly impressive, shooting 62 percent from the field and 42 percent from beyond the arc. These numbers underscore his versatility as a scorer and his ability to make an impact in multiple ways, which coach Pope really enjoys.
Kinney's recruitment showcases his appeal to top programs across the country. The list features perennial powerhouses like Kansas and Alabama, regional rivals Louisville and Cincinnati, and other elite programs from the SEC, Big Ten, and Big 12. Each school brings unique opportunities, and Kinney’s decision-making process is expected to be a fascinating one to watch unfold.
His inclusion of Kentucky, though unsurprising given his local roots, sparks particular interest among fans. Mark Pope and his staff have been heavily invested in recruiting dynamic guards, and Kinney fits the mold of a player who thrives in a fast-paced system. His OTE experience, coupled with his shooting prowess, makes him a potential game-changer for whichever program lands him.
Tayken Kinney continues to be the most EFFICIENT scorer in the league 🥶 71% FG was a huge part of RWE’s 17 point comeback 🔥 @Taylen_0 pic.twitter.com/zBaZwh6YYh
— Overtime Elite (@OvertimeElite) December 24, 2024
Kinney’s recruitment will undoubtedly continue to be one of the most closely followed stories in the 2026 class. As the OTE season progresses, his performances will only add to the anticipation surrounding his next move, and fans across the country are eager to see where the Newport native lands.