The excitement in Lexington is reaching a fever pitch as one of the nation’s top high school basketball prospects inches closer to making a major decision. Jason Crowe Jr., a five-star recruit and the No. 6 overall player in the Class of 2026 per On3’s Industry Rankings, has officially set his college commitment date. According to On3’s Joe Tipton, the highly touted 6-foot-3 shooting guard will make his announcement on July 18—and Kentucky fans are already buzzing with anticipation.
Crowe, who has been turning heads with his dynamic scoring ability, polished offensive game, and elite court vision, has quickly become one of the most sought-after names in high school basketball. His recruitment has drawn significant attention from powerhouse programs across the country, but all signs increasingly point toward one favorite: the University of Kentucky.
While Crowe has kept things fairly quiet and respectful throughout his recruitment process, recent rumblings around the basketball world—and particularly within Kentucky’s passionate fanbase—suggest the Wildcats may be the team to beat. Social media is already lighting up with speculation, and the term “Kentucky lock” has been making the rounds among fans and insiders alike.
The reasons for the optimism in Big Blue Nation are plenty. Kentucky’s track record of developing guards and preparing them for the NBA is unmatched. From John Wall and De’Aaron Fox to Tyrese Maxey and Malik Monk, the Wildcats have a rich history of grooming elite backcourt talent. Under new head coach Mark Pope, who has reinvigorated the program with an energetic and modern approach to recruiting, Kentucky has continued to show its commitment to attracting top-tier players—and Crowe fits that mold perfectly.
Jason Crowe Jr. has had a standout high school career so far, gaining national attention for his performances on the EYBL circuit and at major prep tournaments. With a smooth jumper, explosive first step, and the ability to create plays for both himself and his teammates, Crowe is seen as a guard who can dominate at the college level and beyond. Analysts have praised his basketball IQ, competitiveness, and poise under pressure—all traits that would make him a perfect fit in the high-stakes, high-expectation environment of Kentucky basketball.
Although Crowe has not yet revealed his final list of schools, Kentucky is widely believed to be in the driver’s seat. His connection with the coaching staff, admiration for the program’s history, and the appeal of playing in front of 20,000 roaring fans at Rupp Arena may all be contributing factors. If the Wildcats land him, it would be a massive win for Coach Pope and a strong statement about Kentucky’s continued dominance on the recruiting trail.
As the July 18 decision date approaches, Wildcats fans are already gearing up for what could be a program-shifting moment. Should Jason Crowe Jr. choose Kentucky, it would not only solidify their 2026 recruiting class but also send a clear message: the Wildcats remain a top destination for the game’s brightest young stars.
Until then, all eyes are on Crowe—and all fingers are crossed in Lexington.