For the past year, there’s been some debate about who the top class of 2025 college basketball prospects are. However, there has been no debate on who the top player in 2026 is, with Tyran Stokes leading the way. He’s a 6’7 forward from the state of California.
Stokes is an elite athlete with tremendous handles and can score anywhere on the court. His shot creation is second-to-none, and he is also a good defender. The scoring machine has been putting on a show on the AAU circuit this past weekend, solidifying his status as a star.
In fact, there’s been some talk about whether Stokes could reclassify to play college basketball next season. While that remains to be seen, we do know which teams are reportedly in the mix to land him. There are six college basketball teams to watch, whether for the 2025 or 2026 class.
Here’s a look at how he’d fit in either option, in case he decides about 2025 in the coming weeks.
Arkansas Razorbacks
Coach John Calipari is the king of top prospects, so him being in the mix for Stokes makes sense. On the current roster, the team has FSU transfer Malique Ewin and Trevon Brazile at the four-spot, so room would have to be made for Stokes. This is an option where staying in the 2026 class may be better, allowing him to be the clear focal point on the offense.
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga has a history with former top prospects, including Chet Holmgren a few years ago. They’re set to run a two-center lineup (Graham Ike and Braden Huff), so having a natural power forward in Stokes would be an upgrade for next season. He also would be fine a year later, being the centerpiece attraction as the program moves to the Pac-12 if he waits.
Kansas Jayhawks
It’s been a rough couple of weeks for the program, as two of their reported top frontcourt targets (Dame Sarr and Darrion Williams) have committed to other teams. That leaves the current frontcourt without much depth, with a top-30 prospect, Bryson Tiller, as the current projected starter. Stokes would be an upgrade and a featured piece in the frontcourt. It would also create a historic No. 1/2 of top prospects, Stokes, and Darryn Peterson in the 2025 class.
Kentucky Wildcats
After a big first year with Big Blue Nation, Coach Mark Pope is going to get even more interest from top prospects. Outside of Alabama transfer forward, Mouhamed Dioubate, the Wildcats don’t have much true depth at the four-spot, allowing Stokes to come in and give them a legit offensive option.
Louisville Cardinals
Coach Pat Kelsey had a fantastic first year with the program, leading them back to the NCAA Tournament and nearly winning the ACC. He’s set to work with his first 5-star prospect in Mikel Brown and with forward Aly Khalifa’s status in doubt, the Cardinals could lose Stokes in the frontcourt, surrounded by two elite shooting senior guards in Isaac McKneely and Ryan Conwell. With Stokes, Louisville could be the team to beat in the ACC.
Oregon Ducks
The Ducks are bringing back big man Nate Bittle and guard Jackson Shelstad, but are looking to add another piece for next season. Besides reportedly looking at USC transfer guard Desmond Claude, the team is also looking for a forward to pair with Bittle. Oregon would work best for Stokes if he reclassified, making them a legit Big Ten threat.