Tyran Stokes is widely regarded as the top basketball prospect in the Class of 2026, earning consensus five-star status and the No. 1 national ranking from major recruiting services such as On3, 247Sports, and ESPN. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 245 pounds, Stokes combines elite athleticism with a versatile skill set, making him one of the country's most sought-after high school players.

Early Life and High School Career

Born on October 12, 2007, in Louisville, Kentucky, Stokes began playing basketball competitively in first grade. At age nine, he moved to San Diego and the Atlanta area before settling in Napa, California. As an eighth grader in 2022, he played in the Nike Peach Jam under-16 category for Team WhyNot.

Stokes enrolled at Prolific Prep in Napa ahead of his freshman season, where he played alongside top-ranked 2025 recruit AJ Dybantsa. In July 2024, he transferred to Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, for his junior year.

On-Court Performance and Accolades

Stokes has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the court. During the 2023-24 season at Prolific Prep, he averaged 13.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, earning first-team MaxPreps Sophomore All-America honors.

On the Nike EYBL circuit with the Oakland Soldiers, Stokes averaged 19.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, shooting 52.9% from the field, 44.7% from three-point range, and 79.0% from the free-throw line. He scored in double figures in all 15 games, including standout performances of 31 points, eight rebounds, and five assists against The Family, and 29 points and four steals against Mac Irvin Fire. 

Internationally, Stokes represented the United States at the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup in Turkey, where he averaged 12.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, contributing to the team's gold medal victory.

Playing Style and Development

Stokes is known for his combination of power and finesse. His size and strength allow him to finish through contact at the rim, while his quickness and ball-handling skills make him a threat in transition. He has a developing jump shot, making him a scoring threat from all three levels. t

Defensively, Stokes is versatile, capable of guarding multiple positions due to his lateral quickness and strength. He is an effective on-ball defender and provides solid help defense, including rim protection when needed.

Stokes has expressed a desire to improve his leadership and communication on the court, aiming to be a more vocal presence and a better facilitator for his teammates.

Recruitment and Future Prospects

Stokes has attracted attention from numerous top-tier college programs. He holds scholarship offers from Kentucky, Kansas, UCLA, Louisville, Texas, Alabama, and others. He has scheduled an official visit to the University of Kentucky from May 15-17, 2025.

Stokes has emphasized the importance of finding a program where he feels appreciated beyond basketball, seeking a "home" where he can grow both on and off the court.