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Deadspin | Report: Jerome Tang to return to Baylor coaching staff Feb 11, 2026; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang looks on during the first half against he Cincinnati Bearcats at Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images Former Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang is returning to Baylor as the associate head coach, ESPN reported on Tuesday. Tang reportedly was working with the university to finalize a multi-year contract to rejoin longtime coach Scott Drew’s staff. Tang, 59, spent nearly two decades on the Bears’ coaching staff, including when Baylor won the national championship in 2021. He was an assistant coach from 2003-17 and associate head coach from 2017-22. Tang replaced Bruce Weber as head coach at Kansas State in 2022, forging a 71-57 record in three-plus years at the helm. Tang directed the Wildcats to a No. 3 seed and an Elite Eight appearance in his first season, but he followed that with three straight sub-.500 records in Big 12 play. He was fired with cause by Kansas State on Feb. 16, four days after going on a postgame rant after the Wildcats suffered a 91-62 loss to Cincinnati in front of a home crowd listed at 7,274 at the 13,500-seat Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan., that included several students wearing paper bags over their heads. “This was embarrassing. These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform. There will be very few of them in it next year,” Tang said after the game in which the Wildcats never led. “Like, I am embarrassed for the university. I am embarrassed for our fans, our student section. You know, it is just ridiculous.” In announcing the firing days later, Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor said, “Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program’s overall direction, have not aligned with K-State’s standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university. … Basically, his comments about the student-athletes and the negative reaction to those comments from sources, both nationally and locally, is where it kind of felt like I needed to make the decision.” Tang issued a statement at the time disagreeing with how the university characterized his firing. “I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination,” Tang said in a statement. “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach. … I remain proud of what we built together and confident that I have always acted in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.” Drew and Baylor experienced their own struggles last season, finishing 6-12 in the Big 12 and missing the NCAA Tournament despite having at least two players expected to be picked in June’s NBA Draft. The longest-tenured coach in the conference, Drew expressed empathy for Tang after his firing when Baylor lost 90-74 to Kansas State on Feb. 17. “Nineteen years together, he’s family,” Drew said. “We won championships together. It’s been emotional for me, our staff and our program, because everyone can relate. If you’ve got a brother or a friend and they go through hardship, you feel it.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Report #Jerome #Tang #return #Baylor #coaching #staff

Deadspin | Report: Jerome Tang to return to Baylor coaching staff
Deadspin | Report: Jerome Tang to return to Baylor coaching staff Feb 11, 2026; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang looks on during the first half against he Cincinnati Bearcats at Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images Former Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang is returning to Baylor as the associate head coach, ESPN reported on Tuesday. Tang reportedly was working with the university to finalize a multi-year contract to rejoin longtime coach Scott Drew’s staff. Tang, 59, spent nearly two decades on the Bears’ coaching staff, including when Baylor won the national championship in 2021. He was an assistant coach from 2003-17 and associate head coach from 2017-22. Tang replaced Bruce Weber as head coach at Kansas State in 2022, forging a 71-57 record in three-plus years at the helm. Tang directed the Wildcats to a No. 3 seed and an Elite Eight appearance in his first season, but he followed that with three straight sub-.500 records in Big 12 play. He was fired with cause by Kansas State on Feb. 16, four days after going on a postgame rant after the Wildcats suffered a 91-62 loss to Cincinnati in front of a home crowd listed at 7,274 at the 13,500-seat Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan., that included several students wearing paper bags over their heads. “This was embarrassing. These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform. There will be very few of them in it next year,” Tang said after the game in which the Wildcats never led. “Like, I am embarrassed for the university. I am embarrassed for our fans, our student section. You know, it is just ridiculous.” In announcing the firing days later, Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor said, “Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program’s overall direction, have not aligned with K-State’s standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university. … Basically, his comments about the student-athletes and the negative reaction to those comments from sources, both nationally and locally, is where it kind of felt like I needed to make the decision.” Tang issued a statement at the time disagreeing with how the university characterized his firing. “I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination,” Tang said in a statement. “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach. … I remain proud of what we built together and confident that I have always acted in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.” Drew and Baylor experienced their own struggles last season, finishing 6-12 in the Big 12 and missing the NCAA Tournament despite having at least two players expected to be picked in June’s NBA Draft. The longest-tenured coach in the conference, Drew expressed empathy for Tang after his firing when Baylor lost 90-74 to Kansas State on Feb. 17. “Nineteen years together, he’s family,” Drew said. “We won championships together. It’s been emotional for me, our staff and our program, because everyone can relate. If you’ve got a brother or a friend and they go through hardship, you feel it.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Report #Jerome #Tang #return #Baylor #coaching #staffFeb 11, 2026; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang looks on during the first half against he Cincinnati Bearcats at Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images

Former Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang is returning to Baylor as the associate head coach, ESPN reported on Tuesday.

Tang reportedly was working with the university to finalize a multi-year contract to rejoin longtime coach Scott Drew’s staff.

Tang, 59, spent nearly two decades on the Bears’ coaching staff, including when Baylor won the national championship in 2021. He was an assistant coach from 2003-17 and associate head coach from 2017-22.

Tang replaced Bruce Weber as head coach at Kansas State in 2022, forging a 71-57 record in three-plus years at the helm. Tang directed the Wildcats to a No. 3 seed and an Elite Eight appearance in his first season, but he followed that with three straight sub-.500 records in Big 12 play.

He was fired with cause by Kansas State on Feb. 16, four days after going on a postgame rant after the Wildcats suffered a 91-62 loss to Cincinnati in front of a home crowd listed at 7,274 at the 13,500-seat Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan., that included several students wearing paper bags over their heads.

“This was embarrassing. These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform. There will be very few of them in it next year,” Tang said after the game in which the Wildcats never led. “Like, I am embarrassed for the university. I am embarrassed for our fans, our student section. You know, it is just ridiculous.”


In announcing the firing days later, Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor said, “Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program’s overall direction, have not aligned with K-State’s standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university. … Basically, his comments about the student-athletes and the negative reaction to those comments from sources, both nationally and locally, is where it kind of felt like I needed to make the decision.”

Tang issued a statement at the time disagreeing with how the university characterized his firing.

“I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination,” Tang said in a statement. “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach. … I remain proud of what we built together and confident that I have always acted in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.”

Drew and Baylor experienced their own struggles last season, finishing 6-12 in the Big 12 and missing the NCAA Tournament despite having at least two players expected to be picked in June’s NBA Draft.

The longest-tenured coach in the conference, Drew expressed empathy for Tang after his firing when Baylor lost 90-74 to Kansas State on Feb. 17.

“Nineteen years together, he’s family,” Drew said. “We won championships together. It’s been emotional for me, our staff and our program, because everyone can relate. If you’ve got a brother or a friend and they go through hardship, you feel it.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Report #Jerome #Tang #return #Baylor #coaching #staff

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Feb 11, 2026; Manhattan, Kansas, USA; Kansas State Wildcats head coach Jerome Tang looks on during the first half against he Cincinnati Bearcats at Bramlage Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-Imagn Images

Former Kansas State head coach Jerome Tang is returning to Baylor as the associate head coach, ESPN reported on Tuesday.

Tang reportedly was working with the university to finalize a multi-year contract to rejoin longtime coach Scott Drew’s staff.

Tang, 59, spent nearly two decades on the Bears’ coaching staff, including when Baylor won the national championship in 2021. He was an assistant coach from 2003-17 and associate head coach from 2017-22.

Tang replaced Bruce Weber as head coach at Kansas State in 2022, forging a 71-57 record in three-plus years at the helm. Tang directed the Wildcats to a No. 3 seed and an Elite Eight appearance in his first season, but he followed that with three straight sub-.500 records in Big 12 play.

He was fired with cause by Kansas State on Feb. 16, four days after going on a postgame rant after the Wildcats suffered a 91-62 loss to Cincinnati in front of a home crowd listed at 7,274 at the 13,500-seat Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kan., that included several students wearing paper bags over their heads.

“This was embarrassing. These dudes do not deserve to wear this uniform. There will be very few of them in it next year,” Tang said after the game in which the Wildcats never led. “Like, I am embarrassed for the university. I am embarrassed for our fans, our student section. You know, it is just ridiculous.”

In announcing the firing days later, Kansas State athletic director Gene Taylor said, “Recent public comments and conduct, in addition to the program’s overall direction, have not aligned with K-State’s standards for supporting student-athletes and representing the university. … Basically, his comments about the student-athletes and the negative reaction to those comments from sources, both nationally and locally, is where it kind of felt like I needed to make the decision.”

Tang issued a statement at the time disagreeing with how the university characterized his firing.

“I am deeply disappointed with the university’s decision and strongly disagree with the characterization of my termination,” Tang said in a statement. “I have always acted with integrity and faithfully fulfilled my responsibilities as head coach. … I remain proud of what we built together and confident that I have always acted in the best interests of the university and our student-athletes.”

Drew and Baylor experienced their own struggles last season, finishing 6-12 in the Big 12 and missing the NCAA Tournament despite having at least two players expected to be picked in June’s NBA Draft.

The longest-tenured coach in the conference, Drew expressed empathy for Tang after his firing when Baylor lost 90-74 to Kansas State on Feb. 17.

“Nineteen years together, he’s family,” Drew said. “We won championships together. It’s been emotional for me, our staff and our program, because everyone can relate. If you’ve got a brother or a friend and they go through hardship, you feel it.”

–Field Level Media

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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.

#Tyran #Stokes #commits #Kansas #recruit #NBAs #top #pick
Deadspin | Pistons aiming to avoid historic early exit vs. Magic Apr 27, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) looks to pass in front of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images The Detroit Pistons need a three-game winning streak to avoid joining an infamous list. Only six top seeds in NBA history have flamed out in the first round of the playoffs to a No. 8 seed. The Pistons trail Orlando 3-1 in their best-of-seven series after a 94-88 road loss on Monday. The series resumes in Detroit on Wednesday night. Detroit has to regain its swagger or join the 2023 Milwaukee Bucks as the only top seed since 2012 to get knocked out this early in the postseason. The troubling reality for the Pistons, who won 60 regular-season games, is that the Magic — with the exception of Detroit’s third-quarter outburst in Game 2 — consistently have looked like the better team. The Magic have throttled the All-Star pick-and-roll combination of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, leaving Detroit’s offense in tatters. “The way that we’ve been playing, that stuff’s not good enough to win games in this league,” Cunningham said. “This league’s too good, they’re a good team. They’re outrebounding us, turning me over and we haven’t hit enough shots. Our defense hasn’t caught its footing. It’s not shocking that we’re losing games playing like that.” With Duren neutralized by counterpart Wendell Carter Jr. and Orlando’s defensive coverage, Cunningham has been left to carry the offense. He’s averaging 29.5 points in the series but shooting just 42.4% overall and 28.6% from 3-point range. Turnovers have been a bigger issue. He’s averaging 6.8 giveaways in the series and committed eight in Game 4. “Yeah, it’s frustrating,” Cunningham said. “A lot of it was on myself; I was frustrated with my own play. Having numbers, not making plays in transition. Things like that, the things I do best, just not being able to make plays for my team. They killed us on the offensive glass, our defense didn’t hold up. All that stuff. We’re all frustrated with all that stuff. We’ve gotta fix it and come back better.” The Pistons’ lack of 3-point shooting has come back to bite them — they’re making just 27.5 percent of their attempts in the series. Orlando realizes that in order to complete the upset, it will have to grind out another victory against a now desperate club. “This is a team that won 60 games,” guard Desmond Bane said. “I’m sure they will not blink an eye about being able to win three games in a row. They did it multiple times during the regular season. We are going to have to come ready to play. I’m excited about the challenge.” Paolo Banchero (21.0 points per game) and Bane (19.0) have been the Magic’s offensive leaders in the series. Franz Wagner scored 19 points in Game 4 but left with calf tightness. His availability for Wednesday and the remainder of the series is a big question mark. In his absence, Jamal Cain made a major impact, including a monster dunk over Duren in the second half. Cain finished with eight points and nine rebounds. “We’ve put ourselves in position to try to get four (wins),” coach Jamahl Mosley said. “Right now, it means nothing. We have the advantage and now we’ve just got to make sure we’ve try to keep that advantage.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Pistons #aiming #avoid #historic #early #exit #MagicApr 27, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) looks to pass in front of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images

The Detroit Pistons need a three-game winning streak to avoid joining an infamous list. Only six top seeds in NBA history have flamed out in the first round of the playoffs to a No. 8 seed.

The Pistons trail Orlando 3-1 in their best-of-seven series after a 94-88 road loss on Monday. The series resumes in Detroit on Wednesday night.

Detroit has to regain its swagger or join the 2023 Milwaukee Bucks as the only top seed since 2012 to get knocked out this early in the postseason.

The troubling reality for the Pistons, who won 60 regular-season games, is that the Magic — with the exception of Detroit’s third-quarter outburst in Game 2 — consistently have looked like the better team.

The Magic have throttled the All-Star pick-and-roll combination of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, leaving Detroit’s offense in tatters.

“The way that we’ve been playing, that stuff’s not good enough to win games in this league,” Cunningham said. “This league’s too good, they’re a good team. They’re outrebounding us, turning me over and we haven’t hit enough shots. Our defense hasn’t caught its footing. It’s not shocking that we’re losing games playing like that.”

With Duren neutralized by counterpart Wendell Carter Jr. and Orlando’s defensive coverage, Cunningham has been left to carry the offense. He’s averaging 29.5 points in the series but shooting just 42.4% overall and 28.6% from 3-point range. Turnovers have been a bigger issue. He’s averaging 6.8 giveaways in the series and committed eight in Game 4.


“Yeah, it’s frustrating,” Cunningham said. “A lot of it was on myself; I was frustrated with my own play. Having numbers, not making plays in transition. Things like that, the things I do best, just not being able to make plays for my team. They killed us on the offensive glass, our defense didn’t hold up. All that stuff. We’re all frustrated with all that stuff. We’ve gotta fix it and come back better.”

The Pistons’ lack of 3-point shooting has come back to bite them — they’re making just 27.5 percent of their attempts in the series.

Orlando realizes that in order to complete the upset, it will have to grind out another victory against a now desperate club.

“This is a team that won 60 games,” guard Desmond Bane said. “I’m sure they will not blink an eye about being able to win three games in a row. They did it multiple times during the regular season. We are going to have to come ready to play. I’m excited about the challenge.”

Paolo Banchero (21.0 points per game) and Bane (19.0) have been the Magic’s offensive leaders in the series. Franz Wagner scored 19 points in Game 4 but left with calf tightness. His availability for Wednesday and the remainder of the series is a big question mark.

In his absence, Jamal Cain made a major impact, including a monster dunk over Duren in the second half. Cain finished with eight points and nine rebounds.

“We’ve put ourselves in position to try to get four (wins),” coach Jamahl Mosley said. “Right now, it means nothing. We have the advantage and now we’ve just got to make sure we’ve try to keep that advantage.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Pistons #aiming #avoid #historic #early #exit #Magic">Deadspin | Pistons aiming to avoid historic early exit vs. Magic Apr 27, 2026; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) looks to pass in front of Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images The Detroit Pistons need a three-game winning streak to avoid joining an infamous list. Only six top seeds in NBA history have flamed out in the first round of the playoffs to a No. 8 seed. The Pistons trail Orlando 3-1 in their best-of-seven series after a 94-88 road loss on Monday. The series resumes in Detroit on Wednesday night. Detroit has to regain its swagger or join the 2023 Milwaukee Bucks as the only top seed since 2012 to get knocked out this early in the postseason. The troubling reality for the Pistons, who won 60 regular-season games, is that the Magic — with the exception of Detroit’s third-quarter outburst in Game 2 — consistently have looked like the better team. The Magic have throttled the All-Star pick-and-roll combination of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, leaving Detroit’s offense in tatters. “The way that we’ve been playing, that stuff’s not good enough to win games in this league,” Cunningham said. “This league’s too good, they’re a good team. They’re outrebounding us, turning me over and we haven’t hit enough shots. Our defense hasn’t caught its footing. It’s not shocking that we’re losing games playing like that.” With Duren neutralized by counterpart Wendell Carter Jr. and Orlando’s defensive coverage, Cunningham has been left to carry the offense. He’s averaging 29.5 points in the series but shooting just 42.4% overall and 28.6% from 3-point range. Turnovers have been a bigger issue. He’s averaging 6.8 giveaways in the series and committed eight in Game 4. “Yeah, it’s frustrating,” Cunningham said. “A lot of it was on myself; I was frustrated with my own play. Having numbers, not making plays in transition. Things like that, the things I do best, just not being able to make plays for my team. They killed us on the offensive glass, our defense didn’t hold up. All that stuff. We’re all frustrated with all that stuff. We’ve gotta fix it and come back better.” The Pistons’ lack of 3-point shooting has come back to bite them — they’re making just 27.5 percent of their attempts in the series. Orlando realizes that in order to complete the upset, it will have to grind out another victory against a now desperate club. “This is a team that won 60 games,” guard Desmond Bane said. “I’m sure they will not blink an eye about being able to win three games in a row. They did it multiple times during the regular season. We are going to have to come ready to play. I’m excited about the challenge.” Paolo Banchero (21.0 points per game) and Bane (19.0) have been the Magic’s offensive leaders in the series. Franz Wagner scored 19 points in Game 4 but left with calf tightness. His availability for Wednesday and the remainder of the series is a big question mark. In his absence, Jamal Cain made a major impact, including a monster dunk over Duren in the second half. Cain finished with eight points and nine rebounds. “We’ve put ourselves in position to try to get four (wins),” coach Jamahl Mosley said. “Right now, it means nothing. We have the advantage and now we’ve just got to make sure we’ve try to keep that advantage.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Pistons #aiming #avoid #historic #early #exit #Magic

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