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IPL 2026 — James Franklin praises Abhishek Sharma for his meticulous preparation If there is one constant in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) surge this season, it has been the uninhibited flair of Abhishek Sharma. With 380 runs from eight matches, the left-hander sits atop the run charts after Match 39 — a testament to his range and method.Ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Mumbai Indians, SRH assistant coach James Franklin indicated that Abhishek’s preparation is meticulous, particularly against bowlers who may look to outfox him with variations.“As far as Abhishek is concerned, he is very detailed with how he plans and prepares for oppositions. He will know and understand what MI’s bowlers will try and present to him, particularly in the PowerPlay,” Franklin said.Abhishek had earlier fallen to a slower-ball ploy from Mohammed Shami, prompting questions about whether Mumbai might attempt a similar trap. But Franklin suggested that the opener’s strength lies in anticipation as much as execution.“He likes to have conversations around the different bowlers that he is going to be coming up against in the next game. So, he will be well aware of potentially how they might come at him,” he said.It is that blend of preparation and intent that has defined Abhishek’s season. His ability to dominate the PowerPlay — without abandoning situational awareness — has given SRH a head-start in most games.Against a Mumbai Indians attack searching for consistency, the contest at the top against Jasprit Bumrah could once again set the tone. And if Abhishek’s numbers are any indication, it is a challenge he appears well equipped to meet.Published on Apr 28, 2026 #IPL #James #Franklin #praises #Abhishek #Sharma #meticulous #preparation

IPL 2026 — James Franklin praises Abhishek Sharma for his meticulous preparation

If there is one constant in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) surge this season, it has been the uninhibited flair of Abhishek Sharma. With 380 runs from eight matches, the left-hander sits atop the run charts after Match 39 — a testament to his range and method.

Ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Mumbai Indians, SRH assistant coach James Franklin indicated that Abhishek’s preparation is meticulous, particularly against bowlers who may look to outfox him with variations.

“As far as Abhishek is concerned, he is very detailed with how he plans and prepares for oppositions. He will know and understand what MI’s bowlers will try and present to him, particularly in the PowerPlay,” Franklin said.

Abhishek had earlier fallen to a slower-ball ploy from Mohammed Shami, prompting questions about whether Mumbai might attempt a similar trap. But Franklin suggested that the opener’s strength lies in anticipation as much as execution.

“He likes to have conversations around the different bowlers that he is going to be coming up against in the next game. So, he will be well aware of potentially how they might come at him,” he said.

It is that blend of preparation and intent that has defined Abhishek’s season. His ability to dominate the PowerPlay — without abandoning situational awareness — has given SRH a head-start in most games.

Against a Mumbai Indians attack searching for consistency, the contest at the top against Jasprit Bumrah could once again set the tone. And if Abhishek’s numbers are any indication, it is a challenge he appears well equipped to meet.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#IPL #James #Franklin #praises #Abhishek #Sharma #meticulous #preparation

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If there is one constant in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s (SRH) surge this season, it has been the uninhibited flair of Abhishek Sharma. With 380 runs from eight matches, the left-hander sits atop the run charts after Match 39 — a testament to his range and method.

Ahead of Wednesday’s clash against Mumbai Indians, SRH assistant coach James Franklin indicated that Abhishek’s preparation is meticulous, particularly against bowlers who may look to outfox him with variations.

“As far as Abhishek is concerned, he is very detailed with how he plans and prepares for oppositions. He will know and understand what MI’s bowlers will try and present to him, particularly in the PowerPlay,” Franklin said.

Abhishek had earlier fallen to a slower-ball ploy from Mohammed Shami, prompting questions about whether Mumbai might attempt a similar trap. But Franklin suggested that the opener’s strength lies in anticipation as much as execution.

“He likes to have conversations around the different bowlers that he is going to be coming up against in the next game. So, he will be well aware of potentially how they might come at him,” he said.

It is that blend of preparation and intent that has defined Abhishek’s season. His ability to dominate the PowerPlay — without abandoning situational awareness — has given SRH a head-start in most games.

Against a Mumbai Indians attack searching for consistency, the contest at the top against Jasprit Bumrah could once again set the tone. And if Abhishek’s numbers are any indication, it is a challenge he appears well equipped to meet.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

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Deadspin | Sparks tab Stacy Johns as team president Mar 14, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; Bay FC CEO Stacy Johns cheers with the fans during a game against Denver Summit FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images Stacy Johns has been named the president of the Los Angeles Sparks, the team announced Tuesday. Johns began a short stint as the CEO at Bay FC of the National Women’s Soccer League on March 2 but decided to return to Southern California for family reasons. That came on the heels of a five-plus-year run as the chief business officer at Los Angeles FC of Major League Soccer. “This opportunity brings together two things that matter deeply to me — leading an iconic franchise at a pivotal moment for women’s basketball and being back in Los Angeles with my family full-time,” Johns said. “Having been part of building something special at LAFC, I’ve seen what’s possible in this market, and I’m incredibly energized by the opportunity to help build something meaningful here — building on the Sparks’ legacy while shaping what comes next.” Prior to her time with LAFC, Johns spent 16 years with the Indianapolis Colts. The Indiana native held senior leadership roles in finance with the team. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Sparks #tab #Stacy #Johns #team #presidentMar 14, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; Bay FC CEO Stacy Johns cheers with the fans during a game against Denver Summit FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Stacy Johns has been named the president of the Los Angeles Sparks, the team announced Tuesday.

Johns began a short stint as the CEO at Bay FC of the National Women’s Soccer League on March 2 but decided to return to Southern California for family reasons. That came on the heels of a five-plus-year run as the chief business officer at Los Angeles FC of Major League Soccer.


“This opportunity brings together two things that matter deeply to me — leading an iconic franchise at a pivotal moment for women’s basketball and being back in Los Angeles with my family full-time,” Johns said. “Having been part of building something special at LAFC, I’ve seen what’s possible in this market, and I’m incredibly energized by the opportunity to help build something meaningful here — building on the Sparks’ legacy while shaping what comes next.”

Prior to her time with LAFC, Johns spent 16 years with the Indianapolis Colts. The Indiana native held senior leadership roles in finance with the team.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Sparks #tab #Stacy #Johns #team #president">Deadspin | Sparks tab Stacy Johns as team president Mar 14, 2026; San Jose, California, USA; Bay FC CEO Stacy Johns cheers with the fans during a game against Denver Summit FC in the second half at PayPal Park. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images Stacy Johns has been named the president of the Los Angeles Sparks, the team announced Tuesday. Johns began a short stint as the CEO at Bay FC of the National Women’s Soccer League on March 2 but decided to return to Southern California for family reasons. That came on the heels of a five-plus-year run as the chief business officer at Los Angeles FC of Major League Soccer. “This opportunity brings together two things that matter deeply to me — leading an iconic franchise at a pivotal moment for women’s basketball and being back in Los Angeles with my family full-time,” Johns said. “Having been part of building something special at LAFC, I’ve seen what’s possible in this market, and I’m incredibly energized by the opportunity to help build something meaningful here — building on the Sparks’ legacy while shaping what comes next.” Prior to her time with LAFC, Johns spent 16 years with the Indianapolis Colts. The Indiana native held senior leadership roles in finance with the team. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Sparks #tab #Stacy #Johns #team #president

Deadspin | Star-studded trio finalists for NHL’s Ted Lindsay Award Jan 29, 2026; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) looks to make a pass in front of San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini (71) during the first period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images Connor McDavid, Nikita Kucherov and Macklin Celebrini were named finalists for the Ted Lindsay Award on Tuesday. The award goes each year to the most outstanding player in the NHL, as chosen by members of the NHL Players’ Association. The three finalists were among the top four points scorers in the NHL in the 2025-26 season. Kucherov is the reigning award holder. The date of the trophy announcement was not disclosed. Edmonton Oilers center McDavid led the NHL in scoring with 138 points (48 goals, 90 assists) over 82 games. He is a four-time Lindsay Award recipient, most recently following the 2022-23 season, and is a seven-time finalist. Only Wayne Gretzky is a five-time winner. McDavid, 29, had a 20-game point streak from Dec. 4-Jan. 13, tallying 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) in that span. He captained the Oilers to a second-place finish in the Pacific Division at 41-30-11 (93 points). Kucherov, 32, has played for only the Tampa Bay Lightning since he entered the NHL in 2013. The forward the NHL with a points-per-game average of 1.71 and was tied for third in the league with a plus-43 rating. From Dec. 20-Jan 12, Kucherov registered 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 10 games. This is Kucherov’s fourth time as a finalist and he has won twice — 2018-19 and 2024-25. Celebrini, 19, was the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Sharks and recorded 115 points (45 goals, 70 assists) in 82 games, which was fourth in the NHL but a San Jose franchise record. He is striving to become the first Sharks player to win the Lindsay Award. The center helped the Sharks improve to a 39-35-8 record (86 points), bettering their 20 wins and 52 points from his rookie season. The finalists for the remaining NHL Awards will be announced one per day. On Wednesday, the NHL will reveal the finalists for the Vezina Trophy, given to the top goaltender. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Starstudded #trio #finalists #NHLs #Ted #Lindsay #AwardJan 29, 2026; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) looks to make a pass in front of San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini (71) during the first period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Connor McDavid, Nikita Kucherov and Macklin Celebrini were named finalists for the Ted Lindsay Award on Tuesday.

The award goes each year to the most outstanding player in the NHL, as chosen by members of the NHL Players’ Association. The three finalists were among the top four points scorers in the NHL in the 2025-26 season.

Kucherov is the reigning award holder.

The date of the trophy announcement was not disclosed.

Edmonton Oilers center McDavid led the NHL in scoring with 138 points (48 goals, 90 assists) over 82 games. He is a four-time Lindsay Award recipient, most recently following the 2022-23 season, and is a seven-time finalist. Only Wayne Gretzky is a five-time winner.


McDavid, 29, had a 20-game point streak from Dec. 4-Jan. 13, tallying 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) in that span. He captained the Oilers to a second-place finish in the Pacific Division at 41-30-11 (93 points).

Kucherov, 32, has played for only the Tampa Bay Lightning since he entered the NHL in 2013. The forward the NHL with a points-per-game average of 1.71 and was tied for third in the league with a plus-43 rating. From Dec. 20-Jan 12, Kucherov registered 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 10 games.

This is Kucherov’s fourth time as a finalist and he has won twice — 2018-19 and 2024-25.

Celebrini, 19, was the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Sharks and recorded 115 points (45 goals, 70 assists) in 82 games, which was fourth in the NHL but a San Jose franchise record. He is striving to become the first Sharks player to win the Lindsay Award. The center helped the Sharks improve to a 39-35-8 record (86 points), bettering their 20 wins and 52 points from his rookie season.

The finalists for the remaining NHL Awards will be announced one per day. On Wednesday, the NHL will reveal the finalists for the Vezina Trophy, given to the top goaltender.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Starstudded #trio #finalists #NHLs #Ted #Lindsay #Award">Deadspin | Star-studded trio finalists for NHL’s Ted Lindsay Award Jan 29, 2026; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers forward Connor McDavid (97) looks to make a pass in front of San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini (71) during the first period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images Connor McDavid, Nikita Kucherov and Macklin Celebrini were named finalists for the Ted Lindsay Award on Tuesday. The award goes each year to the most outstanding player in the NHL, as chosen by members of the NHL Players’ Association. The three finalists were among the top four points scorers in the NHL in the 2025-26 season. Kucherov is the reigning award holder. The date of the trophy announcement was not disclosed. Edmonton Oilers center McDavid led the NHL in scoring with 138 points (48 goals, 90 assists) over 82 games. He is a four-time Lindsay Award recipient, most recently following the 2022-23 season, and is a seven-time finalist. Only Wayne Gretzky is a five-time winner. McDavid, 29, had a 20-game point streak from Dec. 4-Jan. 13, tallying 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) in that span. He captained the Oilers to a second-place finish in the Pacific Division at 41-30-11 (93 points). Kucherov, 32, has played for only the Tampa Bay Lightning since he entered the NHL in 2013. The forward the NHL with a points-per-game average of 1.71 and was tied for third in the league with a plus-43 rating. From Dec. 20-Jan 12, Kucherov registered 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in 10 games. This is Kucherov’s fourth time as a finalist and he has won twice — 2018-19 and 2024-25. Celebrini, 19, was the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Sharks and recorded 115 points (45 goals, 70 assists) in 82 games, which was fourth in the NHL but a San Jose franchise record. He is striving to become the first Sharks player to win the Lindsay Award. The center helped the Sharks improve to a 39-35-8 record (86 points), bettering their 20 wins and 52 points from his rookie season. The finalists for the remaining NHL Awards will be announced one per day. On Wednesday, the NHL will reveal the finalists for the Vezina Trophy, given to the top goaltender. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Starstudded #trio #finalists #NHLs #Ted #Lindsay #Award

Tyran Stokes has been ranked as the No. 1 player in the class of 2026 throughout his high school basketball career. His recruitment has been kept extremely close to the vest the entire time, involving everything from disciplinary issues to shoe company politics to desperate head coaches still looking for a star with the transfer portal frenzy mostly finished. Stokes was the only top-40 recruit still unsigned in 247 Sports’ rankings when he announced he’d finally make his choice between the Kansas Jayhawks and Kentucky Wildcats on Tuesday.

Stokes committed to Kansas live on ESPN ahead of the NBA Playoffs to give head coach Bill Self another elite recruiting win. Stokes will take over for Darryn Peterson as the Jayhawks’ freshman superstar, and he’ll be the early front-runner to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft.

Kansas badly needed Stokes in the fold after losing Peterson to the 2026 NBA Draft, star center Flory Bidunga to Louisville in the transfer portal, and Bryson Tiller to Missouri in the transfer portal. On the flip side, this is another devastating blow for Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, who continues to have a nightmarish offseason.

There’s a lot to love about Stokes’ game. Listed at 6’7, 230 pounds, Stokes combines a powerful frame with high-level athleticism to dish out punishment on both ends of the floor. He often plays a point-forward role that leverages his quick first-step off the bounce and advanced passing ability, which might be his most impressive skill right now. Stokes is at his best when he’s attacking downhill and playing through contact at the rim. He’s an explosive leaper for someone his size, and he has good body control to set up his finishes. He got to the free throw line at will at the high school level, and already knows how to use the threat of his interior scoring to set up open windows for passes to teammates.

The lack of three-point volume is probably the biggest red flag in Stokes’ on-court skill set. He’s a decent shooter when he has time to line up a shot, but he doesn’t have a quick release, and likely won’t be a dangerous spot-up threat as a freshman at Kansas.

Stokes will be the primary offensive option on the wing for the Jayhawks as a high-usage ball handler. Kansas is also likely to start another incoming freshman in McDonald’s All-American point guard Taylen Kinney, while returners Kohl Rosario (shooting guard) and Paul Mbiya (center) should also factor into the lineup. The Jayhawks have also added three players in the transfer portal in in 6’1 Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden, 6’9 Utah forward Keanu Dawes, and 7’2 College of Charleston big man Christian Reeves.

Stokes is the fifth incoming freshman for Kansas in the 2026-27 season, with four of them ranked as top-100 recruits by 247 Sports. In addition to Kinney, the Jayhawks are also bringing in 6’4 guard Luke Barnett, 6’5 wing Trent Perry, and 6’9 big Davion Atkins.

Stokes’ decision between Kansas and Kentucky pitted an adidas school vs. a Nike school. Stokes played on the Nike EYBL circuit, and reportedly already has a Nike contract. Stokes left California’s Notre Dame High School at the start of the basketball season to transfer to Seattle’s Rainier Beach High School following reports of disciplinary issues. Stokes was reportedly in two physical altercations with students before leaving Sherman Oaks for Washington state.

Why Tyran Stokes should be an All-American and top NBA Draft pick

The talent in the high school class of 2026 couldn’t compare to the top-end star-power in the class of 2024 and 2025. Stokes is the one player who could stand in exception to that. When I ranked the best high school basketball players in the country in 2023, Stokes finished No. 4 only behind Cooper Flagg, Cameron Boozer, and A.J. Dybantsa.

Stokes’ ability to play such an explosive game at 230+ pounds sets him apart from his peers. He offers real creation upside as a ball handling forward who can hammer cracks into the backline of an opposing defense with his physicality, leaping, and scoring touch. The fact that he also excels as a live-dribble passer is what gives him major offensive upside. He’s going to be unstoppable in transition.

Stokes has potential on the defensive end, too — but it all comes down to his motor. When he’s fully engaged, Stokes gobbles up rebounds, steals, and blocks by being able to get into the passing lanes and being stout enough to excel in low-man duties.

Stokes will start the season as the favorite to be drafted No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft. His biggest competition for the top pick will come from Arizona’s Caleb Holt and Ohio State’s Anthony Thompson.

Stokes is set up for a great freshman year at Kansas. He should post high usage, big scoring numbers, and some awesome highlights. Bill Self has done it again on the recruiting trail.

#Tyran #Stokes #commits #Kansas #recruit #NBAs #top #pick">Tyran Stokes commits to Kansas as No. 1 recruit, and becoming NBA’s top pick is next Tyran Stokes has been ranked as the No. 1 player in the class of 2026 throughout his high school basketball career. His recruitment has been kept extremely close to the vest the entire time, involving everything from disciplinary issues to shoe company politics to desperate head coaches still looking for a star with the transfer portal frenzy mostly finished. Stokes was the only top-40 recruit still unsigned in 247 Sports’ rankings when he announced he’d finally make his choice between the Kansas Jayhawks and Kentucky Wildcats on Tuesday.Stokes committed to Kansas live on ESPN ahead of the NBA Playoffs to give head coach Bill Self another elite recruiting win. Stokes will take over for Darryn Peterson as the Jayhawks’ freshman superstar, and he’ll be the early front-runner to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft.Kansas badly needed Stokes in the fold after losing Peterson to the 2026 NBA Draft, star center Flory Bidunga to Louisville in the transfer portal, and Bryson Tiller to Missouri in the transfer portal. On the flip side, this is another devastating blow for Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, who continues to have a nightmarish offseason.There’s a lot to love about Stokes’ game. Listed at 6’7, 230 pounds, Stokes combines a powerful frame with high-level athleticism to dish out punishment on both ends of the floor. He often plays a point-forward role that leverages his quick first-step off the bounce and advanced passing ability, which might be his most impressive skill right now. Stokes is at his best when he’s attacking downhill and playing through contact at the rim. He’s an explosive leaper for someone his size, and he has good body control to set up his finishes. He got to the free throw line at will at the high school level, and already knows how to use the threat of his interior scoring to set up open windows for passes to teammates.The lack of three-point volume is probably the biggest red flag in Stokes’ on-court skill set. He’s a decent shooter when he has time to line up a shot, but he doesn’t have a quick release, and likely won’t be a dangerous spot-up threat as a freshman at Kansas.Stokes will be the primary offensive option on the wing for the Jayhawks as a high-usage ball handler. Kansas is also likely to start another incoming freshman in McDonald’s All-American point guard Taylen Kinney, while returners Kohl Rosario (shooting guard) and Paul Mbiya (center) should also factor into the lineup. The Jayhawks have also added three players in the transfer portal in in 6’1 Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden, 6’9 Utah forward Keanu Dawes, and 7’2 College of Charleston big man Christian Reeves.Stokes is the fifth incoming freshman for Kansas in the 2026-27 season, with four of them ranked as top-100 recruits by 247 Sports. In addition to Kinney, the Jayhawks are also bringing in 6’4 guard Luke Barnett, 6’5 wing Trent Perry, and 6’9 big Davion Atkins.Stokes’ decision between Kansas and Kentucky pitted an adidas school vs. a Nike school. Stokes played on the Nike EYBL circuit, and reportedly already has a Nike contract. Stokes left California’s Notre Dame High School at the start of the basketball season to transfer to Seattle’s Rainier Beach High School following reports of disciplinary issues. Stokes was reportedly in two physical altercations with students before leaving Sherman Oaks for Washington state.Why Tyran Stokes should be an All-American and top NBA Draft pickThe talent in the high school class of 2026 couldn’t compare to the top-end star-power in the class of 2024 and 2025. Stokes is the one player who could stand in exception to that. When I ranked the best high school basketball players in the country in 2023, Stokes finished No. 4 only behind Cooper Flagg, Cameron Boozer, and A.J. Dybantsa.Stokes’ ability to play such an explosive game at 230+ pounds sets him apart from his peers. He offers real creation upside as a ball handling forward who can hammer cracks into the backline of an opposing defense with his physicality, leaping, and scoring touch. The fact that he also excels as a live-dribble passer is what gives him major offensive upside. He’s going to be unstoppable in transition.Stokes has potential on the defensive end, too — but it all comes down to his motor. When he’s fully engaged, Stokes gobbles up rebounds, steals, and blocks by being able to get into the passing lanes and being stout enough to excel in low-man duties.Stokes will start the season as the favorite to be drafted No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft. His biggest competition for the top pick will come from Arizona’s Caleb Holt and Ohio State’s Anthony Thompson.Stokes is set up for a great freshman year at Kansas. He should post high usage, big scoring numbers, and some awesome highlights. Bill Self has done it again on the recruiting trail. #Tyran #Stokes #commits #Kansas #recruit #NBAs #top #pick

Stokes committed to Kansas live on ESPN ahead of the NBA Playoffs to give head coach Bill Self another elite recruiting win. Stokes will take over for Darryn Peterson as the Jayhawks’ freshman superstar, and he’ll be the early front-runner to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft.

Kansas badly needed Stokes in the fold after losing Peterson to the 2026 NBA Draft, star center Flory Bidunga to Louisville in the transfer portal, and Bryson Tiller to Missouri in the transfer portal. On the flip side, this is another devastating blow for Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, who continues to have a nightmarish offseason.

There’s a lot to love about Stokes’ game. Listed at 6’7, 230 pounds, Stokes combines a powerful frame with high-level athleticism to dish out punishment on both ends of the floor. He often plays a point-forward role that leverages his quick first-step off the bounce and advanced passing ability, which might be his most impressive skill right now. Stokes is at his best when he’s attacking downhill and playing through contact at the rim. He’s an explosive leaper for someone his size, and he has good body control to set up his finishes. He got to the free throw line at will at the high school level, and already knows how to use the threat of his interior scoring to set up open windows for passes to teammates.

The lack of three-point volume is probably the biggest red flag in Stokes’ on-court skill set. He’s a decent shooter when he has time to line up a shot, but he doesn’t have a quick release, and likely won’t be a dangerous spot-up threat as a freshman at Kansas.

Stokes will be the primary offensive option on the wing for the Jayhawks as a high-usage ball handler. Kansas is also likely to start another incoming freshman in McDonald’s All-American point guard Taylen Kinney, while returners Kohl Rosario (shooting guard) and Paul Mbiya (center) should also factor into the lineup. The Jayhawks have also added three players in the transfer portal in in 6’1 Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden, 6’9 Utah forward Keanu Dawes, and 7’2 College of Charleston big man Christian Reeves.

Stokes is the fifth incoming freshman for Kansas in the 2026-27 season, with four of them ranked as top-100 recruits by 247 Sports. In addition to Kinney, the Jayhawks are also bringing in 6’4 guard Luke Barnett, 6’5 wing Trent Perry, and 6’9 big Davion Atkins.

Stokes’ decision between Kansas and Kentucky pitted an adidas school vs. a Nike school. Stokes played on the Nike EYBL circuit, and reportedly already has a Nike contract. Stokes left California’s Notre Dame High School at the start of the basketball season to transfer to Seattle’s Rainier Beach High School following reports of disciplinary issues. Stokes was reportedly in two physical altercations with students before leaving Sherman Oaks for Washington state.

Why Tyran Stokes should be an All-American and top NBA Draft pick

The talent in the high school class of 2026 couldn’t compare to the top-end star-power in the class of 2024 and 2025. Stokes is the one player who could stand in exception to that. When I ranked the best high school basketball players in the country in 2023, Stokes finished No. 4 only behind Cooper Flagg, Cameron Boozer, and A.J. Dybantsa.

Stokes’ ability to play such an explosive game at 230+ pounds sets him apart from his peers. He offers real creation upside as a ball handling forward who can hammer cracks into the backline of an opposing defense with his physicality, leaping, and scoring touch. The fact that he also excels as a live-dribble passer is what gives him major offensive upside. He’s going to be unstoppable in transition.

Stokes has potential on the defensive end, too — but it all comes down to his motor. When he’s fully engaged, Stokes gobbles up rebounds, steals, and blocks by being able to get into the passing lanes and being stout enough to excel in low-man duties.

Stokes will start the season as the favorite to be drafted No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft. His biggest competition for the top pick will come from Arizona’s Caleb Holt and Ohio State’s Anthony Thompson.

Stokes is set up for a great freshman year at Kansas. He should post high usage, big scoring numbers, and some awesome highlights. Bill Self has done it again on the recruiting trail.

#Tyran #Stokes #commits #Kansas #recruit #NBAs #top #pick">Tyran Stokes commits to Kansas as No. 1 recruit, and becoming NBA’s top pick is next

Tyran Stokes has been ranked as the No. 1 player in the class of 2026 throughout his high school basketball career. His recruitment has been kept extremely close to the vest the entire time, involving everything from disciplinary issues to shoe company politics to desperate head coaches still looking for a star with the transfer portal frenzy mostly finished. Stokes was the only top-40 recruit still unsigned in 247 Sports’ rankings when he announced he’d finally make his choice between the Kansas Jayhawks and Kentucky Wildcats on Tuesday.

Stokes committed to Kansas live on ESPN ahead of the NBA Playoffs to give head coach Bill Self another elite recruiting win. Stokes will take over for Darryn Peterson as the Jayhawks’ freshman superstar, and he’ll be the early front-runner to go No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft.

Kansas badly needed Stokes in the fold after losing Peterson to the 2026 NBA Draft, star center Flory Bidunga to Louisville in the transfer portal, and Bryson Tiller to Missouri in the transfer portal. On the flip side, this is another devastating blow for Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, who continues to have a nightmarish offseason.

There’s a lot to love about Stokes’ game. Listed at 6’7, 230 pounds, Stokes combines a powerful frame with high-level athleticism to dish out punishment on both ends of the floor. He often plays a point-forward role that leverages his quick first-step off the bounce and advanced passing ability, which might be his most impressive skill right now. Stokes is at his best when he’s attacking downhill and playing through contact at the rim. He’s an explosive leaper for someone his size, and he has good body control to set up his finishes. He got to the free throw line at will at the high school level, and already knows how to use the threat of his interior scoring to set up open windows for passes to teammates.

The lack of three-point volume is probably the biggest red flag in Stokes’ on-court skill set. He’s a decent shooter when he has time to line up a shot, but he doesn’t have a quick release, and likely won’t be a dangerous spot-up threat as a freshman at Kansas.

Stokes will be the primary offensive option on the wing for the Jayhawks as a high-usage ball handler. Kansas is also likely to start another incoming freshman in McDonald’s All-American point guard Taylen Kinney, while returners Kohl Rosario (shooting guard) and Paul Mbiya (center) should also factor into the lineup. The Jayhawks have also added three players in the transfer portal in in 6’1 Toledo transfer Leroy Blyden, 6’9 Utah forward Keanu Dawes, and 7’2 College of Charleston big man Christian Reeves.

Stokes is the fifth incoming freshman for Kansas in the 2026-27 season, with four of them ranked as top-100 recruits by 247 Sports. In addition to Kinney, the Jayhawks are also bringing in 6’4 guard Luke Barnett, 6’5 wing Trent Perry, and 6’9 big Davion Atkins.

Stokes’ decision between Kansas and Kentucky pitted an adidas school vs. a Nike school. Stokes played on the Nike EYBL circuit, and reportedly already has a Nike contract. Stokes left California’s Notre Dame High School at the start of the basketball season to transfer to Seattle’s Rainier Beach High School following reports of disciplinary issues. Stokes was reportedly in two physical altercations with students before leaving Sherman Oaks for Washington state.

Why Tyran Stokes should be an All-American and top NBA Draft pick

The talent in the high school class of 2026 couldn’t compare to the top-end star-power in the class of 2024 and 2025. Stokes is the one player who could stand in exception to that. When I ranked the best high school basketball players in the country in 2023, Stokes finished No. 4 only behind Cooper Flagg, Cameron Boozer, and A.J. Dybantsa.

Stokes’ ability to play such an explosive game at 230+ pounds sets him apart from his peers. He offers real creation upside as a ball handling forward who can hammer cracks into the backline of an opposing defense with his physicality, leaping, and scoring touch. The fact that he also excels as a live-dribble passer is what gives him major offensive upside. He’s going to be unstoppable in transition.

Stokes has potential on the defensive end, too — but it all comes down to his motor. When he’s fully engaged, Stokes gobbles up rebounds, steals, and blocks by being able to get into the passing lanes and being stout enough to excel in low-man duties.

Stokes will start the season as the favorite to be drafted No. 1 overall in the 2027 NBA Draft. His biggest competition for the top pick will come from Arizona’s Caleb Holt and Ohio State’s Anthony Thompson.

Stokes is set up for a great freshman year at Kansas. He should post high usage, big scoring numbers, and some awesome highlights. Bill Self has done it again on the recruiting trail.

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