Five-star phenom Baba Oladotun has reclassified to the 2026 recruiting class, shaking up the national basketball landscape. The 6’9” forward, widely regarded as one of the most complete prospects in the country, announced the decision earlier this week.
With the move, Oladotun instantly becomes the front-runner for the No. 1 overall ranking in the class. His size, versatility, and two-way skill set have already made him a household name among recruiting analysts.
Recruiting insiders point to Kentucky as the clear early favorite. The Wildcats have been heavily involved in his recruitment for over a year and already built a strong relationship with Oladotun and his camp. Coach John Calipari’s track record of sending elite forwards to the NBA could give Kentucky the edge.
“I want to challenge myself and keep growing my game,” Oladotun said. “Reclassifying gets me closer to my goals.”
Kentucky isn’t the only major program in pursuit. Duke, Kansas, and Alabama remain active. However, sources say Kentucky’s early groundwork could prove decisive.
Oladotun’s reclassification could also alter team strategies for the 2025 and 2026 cycles. Some programs may shift focus to earlier commitments, while others could reshuffle their boards entirely. His decision also adds intrigue to future matchups between the nation’s best young players.
On the court, Oladotun brings elite length, a smooth jumper, and defensive instincts rare for his age. Scouts praise his ability to guard multiple positions and initiate offense from the wing. His development over the next two seasons will be closely monitored by NBA scouts.
Fans can track the latest recruiting updates via 247Sports and check out our Kentucky basketball recruiting tracker for a full breakdown of potential additions to the Wildcats roster.
