LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY: Anthony Thompson, a five-star small forward in the 2026 class, has narrowed his recruitment to 15 schools, with Kentucky making the cut alongside programs like Indiana, Louisville, and Kansas. The 6’8” Ohio native, ranked No. 9 nationally by 247Sports, is emerging as a pivotal target for Mark Pope’s Wildcats as they build toward the future, as first reported by Sports Illustrated.
🔍 Scouting the Standouts
Anthony Thompson | Small Forward | Dayton, OH
- Position: SF
- Hometown: Dayton, Ohio
- Height/Weight: 6’8”, 210 lbs
- Rankings: 5-star, No. 9 overall (247Sports 2026)
- Key Traits: Elite ball-handling, perimeter shooting, defensive versatility
Thompson’s blend of size and skill makes him a modern wing prototype. His ability to create off the dribble, stretch the floor, and switch defensively aligns with Kentucky’s up-tempo philosophy under Pope.
🏀 Inside the Recruitment
Kentucky’s early push for Thompson includes two visits to Lexington—a January campus tour and an October trip for Big Blue Madness. These visits have strengthened the Wildcats’ position in a crowded field that features bluebloods like North Carolina, Michigan State, and Duke. While no decision timeline is set, Kentucky’s proactive engagement and developmental pitch stand out.
Pope’s staff has prioritized Thompson as a cornerstone for the 2026 class, leveraging the program’s brand and recent recruiting momentum. After securing two five-star prospects in 2025, Kentucky aims to solidify its reputation as a destination for elite wings.
📈 Program Priorities
Thompson’s recruitment underscores Kentucky’s focus on versatile, high-IQ players who thrive in pace-and-space systems. His defensive adaptability—guarding positions 1–4—adds immense value to Pope’s vision of a switch-heavy scheme. With 15 schools still in contention, the Wildcats’ challenge lies in outpacing rivals like Louisville and Indiana, who are also aggressively pursuing the Ohio star.
As the 2026 cycle heats up, Thompson’s decision could signal Kentucky’s resurgence in high school recruiting under Pope. Wildcats fans will watch closely as this top-tier battle unfolds.
