The waiting game continues for Big Blue Nation. As widely predicted, four-star center Josh Irving announced his commitment to Texas A&M on this afternoon, choosing the Aggies over Kentucky and Louisville. This was pretty much a formality at this point, but the decision officially leaves Mark Pope and the Wildcats still searching for their first commitment in the crucial 2026 recruiting class.
So, where do things stand now? Let's reset the big board.
The white whales: Stokes and Rippey Jr.
The focus remains squarely on two potential program-changers at the top.
- 1. Tyran Stokes (PF - No. 1 Overall): Stokes' recruitment continues to be an enigma. Nearly every insider views Kentucky as the strong favorite, yet there's no clear timeline for a decision. Rumors of a Big Blue Madness commitment fizzled, possibly due to Stokes wanting to control the narrative and avoid leaks. The confidence level remains high in Lexington, but patience is required. He remains the ultimate prize.
- 2. Deron Rippey Jr. (PG - Top 15): The dynamic point guard is a top priority, but his recruitment feels increasingly complex. Rippey reportedly seeks assurances about playing time and role, which might clash with Pope's emphasis on earning minutes through competition. It echoes the situation with Acaden Lewis, a potential mismatch between talent fit and philosophical fit. Kentucky's odds here seem lower than a few weeks ago, though they remain heavily involved.
Key battlegrounds: Holt and Collins
Beyond the top duo, Kentucky is locked in tough fights for other elite prospects.
- 3. Caleb Holt (SG - Top 5): An explosive scorer with elite athleticism, Holt has genuine interest in Kentucky. However, this appears to be shaping up as a classic blue-blood battle primarily between the Wildcats and Alabama, with the Crimson Tide currently perceived to have the edge.
- 4. Christian Collins (PF - Top 25): Kentucky seems to be in a very strong position for the skilled 6'8" forward from California if he decides to leave the West Coast. That remains the big question, as the pull to stay closer to home is always strong for prospects from that region.
Intriguing options and long shots
Several other talented players remain on Kentucky's radar, though the path seems more challenging currently.
- Miikka Muurinen (SF): The Finnish wing is playing professionally, making his recruitment wide open. College is an option, and Kentucky is involved, but his pro path might win out.
- Baba Oladotun (SF - Top 10): After reclassifying from 2027, the incredibly versatile 6'10" forward is taking his time. Kentucky hosted him for a visit and is firmly in the mix, but competition is fierce nationally.
- Arafan Diane (C - Top 25): Most signs point heavily toward Houston for the imposing big man, but Kentucky remains in a secondary group alongside Virginia, Arkansas, and Indiana should things change.
- Jordan Smith (CG - Top 10): While Kentucky has interest, they appear to be trailing Duke, Arkansas, and Georgetown significantly for the nation's No. 2 combo guard. Ground needs to be made up here.
- Ikenna Alozie (CG - Top 50): Another guard strongly linked to Houston, though perhaps less definitively than Diane. Kentucky is part of a secondary tier including Alabama, Washington, and Louisville.
The waiting game continues
While names like Maximo Adams and Cameron Williams also hold offers, they seem unlikely to end up in Lexington at this stage. Mark Pope's recruiting approach is methodical, focused on finding the right fits for his system and culture.
The lack of commitments isn't necessarily a reason to panic yet, but landing that first big domino, especially Stokes or Rippey, would undoubtedly ease the growing anxiety in Big Blue Nation. Recruiting moves fast, and the board could look very different in a matter of weeks. Stay tuned.
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