UPDATE: The boys’ basketball early signing period is poised for explosive developments as top recruits prepare to announce their commitments. With the signing period kicking off now and running through November 19, coaches and fans alike are on high alert for major moves that will shape the 2026 recruiting landscape.
Commitments are expected to surge, with at least five five-star recruits and numerous top-50 players likely to finalize their decisions in the coming days. Key players to watch include Adam Oumiddoch, who will announce his choice on Wednesday. Oumiddoch, currently ranked No. 35, is considering Oregon, Villanova, St. John’s, Illinois, and LSU, with St. John’s trending upward.
On Friday, two significant commitments are anticipated: Cameron Williams, ranked No. 3, will choose between Duke and Arizona, while four-star big man Ethan Taylor (No. 32) is leaning towards Michigan State. The excitement continues with five-star guard Austin Goosby (No. 19), who has shifted his announcement to Monday, his birthday. Goosby is choosing among BYU, Texas, Duke, and Baylor, with Texas and BYU leading the charge.
Attention will also be on Babatunde Oladotun (No. 8) and Arafan Diane (No. 21), who have set their decision dates for November 19. Arkansas is making a push for Oladotun, while Houston is currently favored for Diane.
In a shocking twist, the top-ranked recruit, Tyran Stokes, recently left Notre Dame High School and has narrowed his choices to Kentucky, Kansas, and Oregon. Sources indicate he may transfer to Rainier Beach High School in Washington to complete his senior year, although speculation around a midyear college enrollment has diminished.
The recruiting landscape is witnessing a shake-up, with Missouri currently leading the way in class rankings, followed by Kansas, Oklahoma State, Pitt, and Vanderbilt. With Jason Crowe (No. 5) as their top commitment, Missouri is looking to solidify its position but could face tough competition from Duke, which is aiming to land top-tier recruits like Williams and Deron Rippey Jr. (No. 18).
First-year coaches are also making a mark, with Miami‘s Jai Lucas securing five-star forward Caleb Gaskins (No. 14) while pursuing Rippey Jr. Similarly, NC State‘s Will Wade has snagged a top-25 class, highlighting the effectiveness of new leadership in recruitment.
As the early signing period unfolds, several top recruits, including Jordan Smith (No. 2) and Caleb Holt (No. 6), may hold off on their decisions until spring, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding this year’s recruiting cycle.
Stay tuned for real-time updates as these pivotal announcements unfold!
