BB Recruiting

Recapping Nike EYBL Session 3 In Dallas

Published

3 years ago

May 17, 2023

via Twitter

Over the weekend, Nike EYBL was in effect as Session 3 took place in Dallas. Many players took the floor looking to further prove themselves as a player. With that, a number of Kentucky targets had an impressive weekend. Let’s take a look:

(Note: Rankings via 247Sports)

Class of 2024

Tre Johnson (2024, No. 1 SG, No. 1 Overall)

Kentucky’s top overall target, Johnson had a good weekend showcasing his range and pure scoring ability. His best game over the weekend included 19 points and 5 rebounds against Georgia Stars. Through three sessions, he is averaging 18.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, while shooting 40% from the field.

Kentucky is all-in on the No. 1 overall prospect in 2024. Johnson is expected to make his decision before Peach Jam, which starts on July 3rd. Kentucky is in a battle with Texas and Baylor, Johnson’s home-state schools.

Baylor and Kentucky are seen to be in a close race for Johnson, with Texas behind the two schools.

He recently released his Top 6 schools which included Kentucky, Baylor, Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, and Kansas.

NEWS: Tre Johnson, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2024 class, tells me he’s down to six schools.

Story: https://t.co/lvU26HylHz pic.twitter.com/J8WO2afJ3i— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 15, 2023

Karter Knox (2024, No. 5 SF, No. 15 Overall)

One of the more impressive top targets for Kentucky, Karter Knox has been making noise at Nike EYBL. He really filled it up this weekend, proving why he’s one of the top scorers in all of EYBL.

His best game this weekend included 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists against ProSkills. Through three sessions, Knox is averaging 21.2 points, which ranks 1st in 17U, 4.5 rebounds, 1.1 assists, shooting 53.5% from the field.

Knox has been proving himself as a top scorer in 2024, with Kentucky very interested in the Top-15 prospect, who has ties with both Kentucky and Louisville, who are the clear front-runners in his recruitment.

Session 3 @NikeEYB Notes

‘24 F Karter Knox has displayed his two-way game late tonight in Dallas. Strong frame & physicality have allowed him to bully opponents and attack in straight-line drives. Has also knocked down a couple of 3’s & has pulled down a few crucial boards. pic.twitter.com/WvZFhwoMDM— Alex Walulik (@alex_walulik) May 14, 2023

Boogie Fland (2024, No. 2 CG, No. 13 Overall)

As Kentucky’s top priority at Point Guard, Fland is proving why he is an elite guard. Showcasing his deep range as well as his pull-up ability, with a knack for scoring. He had a really good weekend, with his best performance being 23 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists against AZ Unity.

Through three sessions, Fland is averaging 16.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, and is shooting 46.3% from the field.

Fland has a number of suitors including Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Alabama, UCONN, St. John’s, and others. Kentucky is making a strong push for him, which is where he wants to take one of his visits to.

Fresh off a visit to Michigan, he is looking to ramp up his visits soon.

Billy Richmond (2024, No. 18 SG, No. 91 Overall)

Over the weekend, Richmond made his case to receive a huge jump in the next rankings update. His best performance this weekend included 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Through three sessions, Richmond is averaging 16.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, shooting a very efficient 54.6% from the field.

As far as his recruitment, he mentioned Kentucky, Memphis, and Louisville as schools he is wanting to visit among others. He is looking to make a decision during Peach Jam or “right after, he recently told 247 Sports’ Travis Branham.

@NikeEYB Session 3 – Dallas, TX. Update: Scholars (8-2) defeat @TeamThadNation (9-2) 75-72 behind Memphis native Billy Richmond 20 pts. TTN @35Derrion led all scorers with 21 pts.@ColinzCody @MemphoNewsLady @Leontaylor1983 @leroywatsonjr @GoTigers247 @memphispreps @johnvarlas pic.twitter.com/PEoSbvFMh3— Harold Rivera (@memphishoopers) May 13, 2023

Ahmad Nowell (2024, No. 6 CG, No. 50 Overall)

Another player who made a lot of noise this weekend, Nowell is due for a big jump in the rankings.

His numbers have jumped significantly since the first two sessions, which is why his recruitment has really picked up recently.

His best game this weekend included 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Through three sessions, he is averaging 14.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, and shooting 54.9% overall.

He most recently received an offer from Kentucky, where he told KY Insider “it feels amazing.” He also holds offers from the likes of Tennessee, Memphis, Auburn, and Kansas among others.

Ahmad Nowell can GO 💨💥 19/5/5 on 4/6 from 3 in Team Final’s win over PG Elite @NikeEYB pic.twitter.com/SZeazF1Gri— SportsCenter NEXT (@SCNext) May 14, 2023

Class of 2025

Meleek Thomas (2025, No. 1 PG, No. 7 Overall)

Proving himself as an elite guard, Thomas is showing off his scoring ability on a loaded New Heights Lightning squad in EYBL.

He had an impressive weekend. His best game included 21 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists. Through the first three sessions, he is averaging 14.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, and shooting 51% overall.

His recruitment has taken off since session 2 of EYBL, picking up offers from UCONN, Duke, Tennessee, and Louisville.

Darius Acuff (2025, NR)

Out of players who have proven to be a stock-riser, Acuff was the most impressive. As one of the top scorers in the 17U division, he was very impressive, especially alongside another stock-riser, in teammate Trey McKenney, who recently told KY Insider that Kentucky has “high interest” in him, and that he is expecting an offer soon.

An impressive duo, they are proving themselves as one of the top backcourts in EYBL. Acuff has been on a scoring tear. His best game this weekend included 30 points, 6 assists, and 1 rebound.

Through three sessions, he is averaging, 20.5 points, which is 2nd among 17U in EYBL, 4 assists, and 3.7 rebounds, and shooting 47.7% overall.

He has recently received offers from Kentucky, Michigan State, Pittsburgh, Kansas, and Indiana, and it’s not hard to see why.

2025 PG 6-foot-2 Darius Acuff Jr. has had a stock-boosting spring playing up 17U and one of the top scorers in the @NikeEYB at 20.5 PPG.

An elite 3PT shot maker, plays at his own pace with a mature game, and has displayed his ability to get to the rim @TheFamily_bball. pic.twitter.com/79NkIk9dSM— Samad Hines (@Samad_Hines) May 15, 2023

Class of 2026

Tyran Stokes (2026 F, NR)

One of the most impressive prospects in the class of 2026, Stokes is playing up two levels in 17U and is dominating. He is one that Kentucky really likes, and it’s not hard to see why after watching him.

Although his best game over the weekend was 13 points, 2 rebounds, and 4 assists, the stats shouldn’t fool you. Whenever he is on the floor, he has the elite ability to take over.

Through three sessions, he is averaging 12.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. Kentucky has not extended an offer to the top-prospect, but they will be keeping tabs on him in the future. Stokes currently holds offers from the likes of Alabama, Arizona State, Louisville, and Xavier.

As one of the top prospects in the rising sophomore class, Stokes will only see his recruitment keep growing.

AJ Dybantsa (2026 SF, NR)

Along with Tyran Stokes, Dybantsa is a top-ranked player in the class of 2026, and is a superstar in the making. Playing up in 17U, he put on a scoring clinic this weekend.

His best game this weekend included 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. He is currently averaging 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, shooting 52.7% overall.

Dybantsa is a future superstar, and he and Tyran Stokes lead the promising class of 2026.

#1 player in 2026 for a reason. AJ Dybantsa was making it look easy this morning.

🥶 20 PTS
🥶 7-10 FG
🥶 5 AST@ADybantsa @ExpressionsBall @NikeEYB pic.twitter.com/2x18sTBG5H— SLAM HS Hoops (@SLAM_HS) May 13, 2023

There was plenty to be excited about from the weekend in Dallas at Nike EYBL. Here are some of my biggest stock risers from Session 3:

Great weekend for Session 3 of EYBL!

My stockrisers:

Darius Acuff (@DariusAcuff)
Trey McKenney (@mckenneytrey1)
Ahmad Nowell (@AhmadNowell0)
Billy Richmond (@BillyRichmondI)

Also, Tyran Stokes playing up and dominating 17U is something that shouldn't go unnoticed.— Wyatt Huff (@Wildcat_wave) May 14, 2023

BB Recruiting

Kentucky Basketball Conducts Zoom Call With Fifth Year Transfer Keyshawn Hall

Published

2 weeks ago

August 4, 2026

Tristan Pharis

The Kentucky basketball staff is looking to fill their final roster spot, and conducted a Zoom call with fifth year Auburn transfer Keyshawn Hall.

IMAGN

On Friday afternoon, a preliminary injunction granted by a U.S. District Court judge in Colorado gave athletes from the 2022 high school class a fifth season of eligibility, potentially creating another transfer portal opportunity late into the offseason.

This is something the Kentucky basketball staff has been monitoring through the offseason, potentially using it as an avenue to add the 15th and final player to the roster. One name that the staff has communicated with is fifth-year Auburn transfer Keyshawn Hall. According to a source, Kentucky conducted a Zoom call with Hall on Monday.

Hall is a well-traveled athlete, playing for four schools in four seasons. Starting his career at UNLV, he has since played for George Mason, UCF, and Auburn last season.

While at Auburn, Hall averaged 19.3 PPG and 7.1 RPG on 45/38/86 shooting clips, with a 60.6 true shooting percentage. The 6-7 wing could bring versatility and shot creation at the four spot, potentially playing the three in big lineups. However, there are some concerns. On the court, Hall struggles with defensive consistency. Off the court, Hall was suspended for a game last season, with Auburn coach Steven Pearl citing that he “did not live up to the standards of our program this week.”

Mark Pope said that the last piece of the roster would be one that fit. Hall is certainly talented, and if Pope and Co. are pursuing him, they are confident that he is a good fit and that they can handle the concerns.

It is worth noting that the NCAA filed an emergency motion in hopes that a federal judge will stay a nationwide injunction, stating that in the injuction is sustained it would destabilize program rosters and impair the NCAA’s ability to self-governwould destabilize rosters and impair the NCAA’s ability to self-govern.

The speed at which the appeal will be reviewed will be seen, but as it stands, Hall is eligible for another season of college basketball, and Kentucky is interested.

Also published on A Sea of Blue.

BB Recruiting

Kentucky Is in Daily Contact with Five-Star Big Man Darius Wabbington, “Kentucky’s legacy is no joke”

Published

2 months ago

July 2, 2026

Tristan Pharis

Five-star big man Darius Wabbington lists Kentucky among six finalists, praising Mark Pope's coaching, Kentucky's program prestige, and Mo Williams' recruiting energy.

Team USA

As the high school basketball circuits conclude later this month, college basketball coaches are starting to key in on their primary targets for the 2027 class. For Kentucky, one such player is five-star big man Darius Wabbington.

Kentucky assistants Cody Fueger and Mo Williams have been in contact with Wabbington on a daily basis, trying to convince him that Kentucky is the place for him. When asked about Williams, the newest coach on the UK staff, “Great energy,” Wabbington exclaimed. “Another extremely smart coach who knows what it takes to get to the next level.”

Since joining the staff in April, Williams has really made a difference for the Wildcats on the recruiting trail, with multiple prospects having positive things to say about him and his recruiting approach.

As for what Wabbington is looking for in his future school, he is prioritizing fit and his relationship with the coaching staff, and he has a positive view of Mark Pope and the prestige of Kentucky basketball.

“I think Mark Pope is one of the best coaches in the country, and Kentucky’s legacy is no joke. I’d love to be a part of both”

The two sides are working on setting up a visit, as Kentucky was announced as one of six finalists earlier this week, along with Arizona, Texas, Louisville, Indiana, and North Carolina.

In June, Mark Pope got a commitment from top-ten prospect, Ryan Hampton, who Wabbington calls “my guy,” and could begin recruiting him to join him in Lexington.

BB Recruiting

Kentucky Basketball Receives Prediction to Land International Star Nikola Kusturica

Published

2 months ago

June 17, 2026

Tristan Pharis

Kentucky basketball has taken over as the favorite for Serbian star Nikola Kusturica, a projected lottery pick in 2028, with a prediction backing the Wildcats.

Just when many believed Kentucky’s roster was complete in terms of contributing players, Mark Pope might have an ace up his sleeve.

Last week, it was reported that Kentucky was among the frontrunners to land 6-foot-8 Serbian wing Nikola Kusturica. At the time, Gonzaga was thought to be the team to beat, having a more defined role to offer, compared to Kentucky, who has one remaining roster spot and a good amount of depth in wing positions.

Since then, things have shifted in a big way.

Gonzaga received a commitment from 18-year-old French guard Juwan Ekanga-Ehawa on Sunday. By Tuesday night, the Wildcats received a Crystal Ball prediction from 247Sports’ Travis Branham to land Kusturica, with a confidence level of 7 out of 10.

The 6-foot-8 wing currently plays for FC Barcelona in Spain’s Liga ACB and EuroLeague system. He just turned 17 years old and is reportedly seeking a two-year college opportunity before becoming draft-eligible in 2028, where he is already being projected as a lottery pick.

The on-court résumé speaks for itself. In the 2025 FIBA U16 EuroBasket, he averaged 20 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.1 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game while leading Serbia to a championship and was named tournament MVP. He also helped Barcelona capture the Adidas NextGen Finals championship last month, posting 20 points and 10 rebounds in the title game against Real Madrid.

Next, Kusturica will represent Serbia in the FIBA U17 World Cup from June 27 to July 5, and a college decision could come before then.

Mark Pope is carrying a lot of momentum in recent weeks after retaining Malachi Moreno and adding Milan Momcilovic to this season’s roster, as well as landing the first top 10 prospect of his career in Ryan Hampton. If he can close on Kusturica, that would cap off the roster in a significant way and continue to change the narrative around his recruiting ability.