Mark Pope has Kentucky basketball recruiting like a machine, and the Wildcats are locked in early on some of the biggest names in the 2026 class. Here’s a look at the top targets Kentucky fans should know — and who Big Blue Nation might want to see rocking the blue and white the most.
Tyran Stokes: No. 1 overall prospect
Position: Small Forward
Height/Weight: 6-7, 245 lbs
High School: Notre Dame (Sherman Oaks, CA)
The top player in the country, Tyran Stokes, has Kentucky right in the thick of his recruitment, but Kansas and Louisville are major threats too. According to NBADraftRoom.com, Stokes is a big-bodied wing who moves with incredible quickness for his size. He’s a force when he gets downhill, finishes strong around the rim, and has elite bounce.
His 3-point shot is still developing, but his form is promising. On defense, Stokes uses his strength and agility to lock down guards and wings alike. A true do-it-all player, he would be a program-changer if Kentucky can land him.
Taylen Kinney: In-state star on the rise
Position: Point Guard
Height/Weight: 6-1, 185 lbs
Overtime Elite (Atlanta, GA)
Kentucky has a golden opportunity with Taylen Kinney, a native of Kentucky and a true floor general. Kinney averaged 20.1 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.0 rebounds this season while shooting 55% from the field and 33% from three.
He's explosive, crafty, and knows how to run an offense. With his ties to the state, he’s one of the most natural fits for the Wildcats in this class.
Anthony Thompson: Smooth lefty with big upside
Position: Small Forward
Height/Weight: 6-7, 185 lbs
High School: Western Reserve Academy (Hudson, OH)
Ranked No. 9 nationally, Anthony Thompson is a skilled lefty who can create his own shot and defend multiple positions. NBADraftRoom.com praises his ability to finish through contact, hit tough jumpers, and guard all over the floor thanks to his exceptional length.
Thompson projects as a long-term pro prospect, and his versatility would be a major asset in Kentucky’s system.
Miikka Muurinen: International stretch-4 with NBA potential
Position: Power Forward
Height/Weight: 6-10, 185 lbs
High School: Compass Prep (Chandler, AZ)
Miikka Muurinen, the No. 7 player nationally, is a name Kentucky fans should get to know. ArizonaPreps.com describes him as a potential NBA Lottery pick with serious skill.
Muurinen can shoot from anywhere, defend multiple positions, and plays with a toughness that jumps off the court. His ability to score at all three levels — and battle inside — makes him one of the most complete forwards in the class.
Other names to watch
Kentucky is also involved with other elite 2026 prospects:
Brandon McCoy (PG, St. John Bosco, CA)
Jason Crowe Jr. (PG, Inglewood, CA)
Jordan Smith (SG, Paul VI Catholic, VA)
Caleb Holt (SF, Grayson, GA)
Ikenna Alozie (PG, Dream City Christian, AZ)
Each player brings something different to the table — elite scoring, playmaking, or defense — and Kentucky's presence with so many top names shows the program's momentum under Mark Pope.
🏀 Which one of these future stars would YOU most want to see in blue and white? Drop your pick and why!