For months, the recruitment of 2026 star guard Tay Kinney has been viewed as a two-horse race, a classic border war between Mark Pope's Kentucky Wildcats and Pat Kelsey's Louisville Cardinals. Both coaches made him a massive priority, visiting him at the stroke of midnight on the first day of the contact period.
But with his September 28th announcement date looming, it appears that a late surge from another program has completely upended the race. According to a flurry of rumors on social media, Tay Kinney is now trending heavily toward becoming a Kansas Jayhawk.
What happened to the in-state schools?
The late-night trips and constant attention from the UK and UofL staffs were thought to have solidified their standing, but Bill Self and Kansas seem to have made an irresistible late push. For Kentucky, this would be a tough blow as Mark Pope continues to search for his first commitment in the 2026 class, but there are alternatives. For Louisville, losing the in-state prospect would sting, forcing them to pivot their recruiting efforts immediately.
Some have suggested that a recent massive donation to the Kansas athletic department may have played a role. A reported $300 million gift received just before the football season could have bolstered the school's NIL coffers, potentially allowing them to "drop the bag" for a top-15 national prospect.
Where do the Cats turn next?
With Kinney seemingly headed out of state, expect Kentucky to ramp up its pursuit of another elite point guard, Deron Rippey Jr. UK assistant Mikhail McLean was in to see Rippey on Tuesday, and he will now likely become the top priority at the position. The Wildcats won't be alone, as Louisville will also be forced to push hard for Rippey, making his recruitment the next major battleground for the next Pope vs. Kelsey battle.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premier League soccer. Psalm 121:7-8. #UpTheAlbion