As of April 3, 2025, there is no official announcement regarding Tyran Stokes committing to the University of Kentucky’s men’s basketball program under head coach Mark Pope.
However, the Wildcats have been actively recruiting Stokes, recognizing his exceptional talent and potential impact on the team.
Tyran Stokes, a 6-foot-7, 245-pound small forward from Louisville, Kentucky, is currently ranked as the No. 1 player in the 2026 recruiting class. His impressive versatility, strength, and skill set have garnered attention from top programs nationwide. Stokes transferred to Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, where he continues to showcase his abilities on a national stage.
Coach Mark Pope and his staff have prioritized Stokes in their recruiting efforts. Pope has been actively communicating with Stokes, offering consistent support and congratulations on his performances. Stokes has acknowledged this relationship, stating, “Coach Mark, he’s a great dude. He’s always texting me, catching up and telling me congratulations on the games and stuff like that.”
In January 2025, Coach Pope attended one of Stokes’s games, underscoring Kentucky’s keen interest. This presence did not go unnoticed, as fans and analysts speculated about the potential for Stokes to join the Wildcats.
Stokes has expressed appreciation for Kentucky’s proximity to his hometown and the program’s storied history. He remarked, “You know it’s home, close to home. Coach [Mark] Pope, he’s a good dude. He’s genuine.”
While Stokes’s recruitment remains open, Kentucky’s dedicated efforts reflect their commitment to securing top-tier talent to enhance the team’s competitiveness. The Wildcats’ focus on building strong relationships with recruits like Stokes demonstrates their strategic approach to assembling a formidable roster for future seasons.
As the recruitment process unfolds, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring developments, hopeful that Stokes might choose to bring his talents to Lexington and contribute to the Wildcats’ pursuit of excellence in college basketball.
