Mark Pope’s first full recruiting cycle as Kentucky’s head coach has entered the crucial stretch, and the Wildcats are deeply involved with several key targets who could shape the next era of Kentucky basketball. The pressure is mounting to land the foundational pieces for the future.
Deron Rippey Jr.: Kentucky makes its pitch
Deron Rippey Jr., the dynamic 6-foot-2 point guard from Blair Academy, remains one of the hottest names in the 2026 class. After completing visits to Kentucky, Louisville, Miami, UNC, Syracuse, and Texas, Rippey still has trips planned to Duke, NC State, and Tennessee.
His comments to Adam Zagoria about his Kentucky visit revealed just how aggressively Pope's staff is pursuing him:
“It was good — they kind of wanted to sell me on their brand. They told me they want me to come in and be that starting guy at the point guard position, trying to show people what Kentucky basketball is trying to uphold even after coach Cal left, in the Mark Pope era.”
Rippey confirmed that Kentucky is “for sure” prioritizing him. That’s a critical sign as the Wildcats hunt for their first commitment in the 2026 cycle, pitching Rippey as the potential centerpiece at point guard.
Josh Irving: Decision coming soon?
Four-star center Josh Irving from Pasadena, CA, appears close to a decision. His final three consists of Kentucky, Louisville, and Texas A&M. With his official visits completed, multiple recruiting insiders suggest an announcement could come as soon as this week.
Kentucky’s pitch has centered on immediate playing time within Pope’s skill-focused system where big man have a real chance to shine. Landing Irving would be Pope’s first major recruiting victory head-to-head against both Louisville and an SEC rival, making this a crucial battleground.
Keeping an eye on the duture (and the mystery)
Looking ahead, Kentucky also made an impression on Class of 2027 forward Dawson Battie, offering him a scholarship during his Big Blue Madness visit. Battie, a long, athletic wing, fits Pope’s vision perfectly.
And then there’s the name constantly buzzing around Big Blue Nation: Tyran Stokes. The No. 1 overall player's recruitment remains shrouded in mystery. While optimism persists that Kentucky leads, Stokes continues to keep everyone guessing, and no concrete timeline for a decision has emerged.
The big picture: Fit over flash
Kentucky’s recruiting under Pope is clearly methodical, prioritizing fit and development. The staff is selling a specific vision. With potential decisions looming for Rippey and Irving, and the Stokes saga ongoing, the next few weeks could determine whether the Mark Pope Era officially gets its foundational recruiting moment.
Landing two of these three key targets would be a massive win.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion