Kentucky trending for 2026’s no. 1 player Tyran Stokes
There are recruiting wins—and then there are statements.
And right now, Mark Pope looks like he’s closing in on the biggest one of his career: Tyran Stokes, the No. 1 overall player in the class of 2026.
Stokes, a 6-foot-7 forward from Notre Dame High School in California, is originally from Louisville. That local tie has made Kentucky a constant presence in his recruitment. He officially visited Lexington on June 8, and national buzz continues to tilt toward the Wildcats.
Respected analyst and Sportswriter Hall of Famer Dick Weiss made it plain:
“Kentucky emerging as team to beat for 6-7 wing Tyran Stokes from Notre Dame High in Calif., the No. 1 prospect in class of 2026.”
That’s not hyperbole. Stokes is a freight train with finesse. NBA Draft Room raves:
“A big-bodied wing/combo forward who’s quick and nimble for his size. He’s tough to stop once he gets a head of steam and finishes strong around the rim… developing as a 3-point shooter, but puts good rotation on the ball… strong defender in space.”
Pope already landed Kentucky natives Jasper Johnson (2025), Travis Perry and Trent Noah (2024). Stokes could elevate that streak to a whole new tier.
What makes this even more compelling is the timing. Pope is only entering his second season, yet he’s sitting in pole position for a player some scouts believe would go No. 1 in a 2025 reclass scenario. That’s unheard of.
The race isn’t over—Louisville, Kansas, and others are lurking—but Kentucky’s momentum is real. In a landscape dictated by NIL, family ties, and trust in development, Pope is pushing all the right buttons.
If he pulls it off, it won’t just be a major coup. It’ll be a clear signal: Kentucky is back to being Kentucky.