Kentucky Lands in Top 10 for Elite 2026 Recruit Anthony Thompson
Lexington, KY – The Kentucky Wildcats basketball program has once again asserted its presence on the national recruiting scene, securing a coveted spot in the top ten schools for five-star small forward Anthony Thompson. The 6-foot-8 wing from Ohio, ranked as the ninth-best player in the entire 2026 class according to 247Sports, is one of the most sought-after prospects in the nation, and Kentucky’s inclusion in his narrowed list signals a significant step in their pursuit.
Thompson’s top ten, announced earlier today, features a who’s who of college basketball powerhouses, including in-state rivals Indiana and Louisville, along with Michigan, Kansas, Auburn, BYU, Xavier, Texas, Georgetown, Notre Dame, Purdue, Michigan State, Ohio State, and North Carolina. This impressive list underscores the level of talent and potential that Thompson possesses.
While the competition for Thompson’s commitment will undoubtedly be fierce, Kentucky has already established a foothold in his recruitment. The talented forward has already made two visits to Lexington, indicating a genuine interest in the Wildcats program. These visits likely provided Thompson with an opportunity to tour the facilities, meet the coaching staff and players, and get a feel for the basketball culture that permeates the university.
The arrival of new head coach Mark Pope has injected a fresh wave of energy into Kentucky’s recruiting efforts. Known for his passionate approach and ability to connect with players, Pope and his staff are diligently working to build a roster that can compete at the highest level. Landing a player of Thompson’s caliber would be a major coup for the new regime and a clear statement of intent for the future of Kentucky basketball.
It’s important to remember that the recruitment of a top prospect like Thompson is a marathon, not a sprint. Making a player’s top ten is a crucial first step, but the Wildcats will need to continue to build a strong relationship with Thompson and his family, showcasing the unique opportunities and advantages that playing in Lexington can offer.
The 2026 recruiting class is already shaping up to be a pivotal one for many programs, and Kentucky’s early involvement with elite talents like Anthony Thompson suggests they are determined to remain a dominant force in college basketball. Wildcat fans will undoubtedly be following Thompson’s recruitment closely, hopeful that the talented wing will ultimately choose to don the blue and white. The journey is just beginning, but Kentucky has clearly positioned itself as a serious contender for one of the nation’s top prizes.