1. Blue Blood Battle: Five-Star Guard Chooses Kentucky Over Kansas, Duke
In a recruiting showdown between college basketball’s most storied programs, five-star guard Jaylen “J.J.” Douglas announced his commitment to Kentucky on Wednesday. The 6-foot-4 combo guard from California had narrowed his list to Kentucky, Kansas, and Duke before picking John Calipari’s squad.
Douglas, ranked No. 7 nationally by 247Sports, cited Kentucky’s player development and NBA pipeline as key factors. “Coach Cal has a vision for me. I want to win, but I also want to grow. Kentucky gives me both,” Douglas said during a live broadcast of his commitment.
His addition bolsters a Wildcats class already loaded with talent and reaffirms Kentucky’s standing as a premier destination for one-and-done stars.
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2. Tar Heels Land Top European Prospect Luka Bogavac in 2025 Class
North Carolina added an international spark to its 2025 recruiting class with the commitment of Montenegrin shooting guard Luka Bogavac. The 6-foot-6 wing chose UNC over offers from Baylor, Arizona, and Real Madrid’s pro team, citing his desire to play college ball before entering the NBA Draft.
Bogavac brings elite perimeter shooting, high IQ playmaking, and international experience after competing in FIBA U18 tournaments.
“He fits Carolina basketball — smart, unselfish, skilled,” head coach Hubert Davis said. With Bogavac, UNC continues a trend of recruiting international prospects, following in the footsteps of players like Day’Ron Sharpe and Leaky Black.
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3. Michigan State Pulls Off Major Steal with Commitment from No. 12 Overall Recruit
Michigan State landed a major surprise commitment as five-star forward Kahlil Brandon picked the Spartans over hometown favorite UCLA and blue-chip program Gonzaga. The 6-foot-8 California native is a versatile forward with the athleticism to guard multiple positions and a soft shooting touch from midrange.
“Izzo kept it real with me,” Brandon said. “He sees me as someone who can be a leader in this class and compete right away.”
Tom Izzo, known for developing gritty forwards and NBA-ready talent, now secures a cornerstone for his 2025 class, which is shaping up to be among the best in the Big Ten.
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4. Texas Tech Nabs Underrated Sharpshooter in Four-Star PG Jordan Allen
Texas Tech made waves by securing a commitment from fast-rising point guard Jordan Allen, a four-star recruit from Atlanta, Georgia. Allen had offers from Florida State, Miami, and Memphis, but opted for the Red Raiders’ up-tempo system and strong guard history.
Known for his deep three-point range and quick first step, Allen averaged 23.1 points and 7.4 assists per game in his junior year. His recruiting stock surged over the past six months after standout performances on the AAU circuit.
Coach Grant McCasland called Allen “a game-changer,” and analysts believe he could be one of the sleeper stars of the 2025 cycle.
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5. Duke Builds a Future Frontcourt with Commitment from No. 1 Center
Duke’s 2025 class got a significant boost with the addition of five-star big man Jeremiah Westbrook, the top-ranked center in the nation. The 6-foot-10 force from Illinois brings a powerful inside presence with elite rebounding, shot-blocking ability, and rapidly improving footwork in the post.
Westbrook picked the Blue Devils over Michigan, Illinois, and Alabama, praising Jon Scheyer’s vision for his development.
“This program knows how to produce big men — from [Zion] Williamson to [Dereck] Lively, I trust their track record,” Westbrook said in a video announcement.
Duke now pairs Westbrook with four-star power forward Bryce Kelly, forming one of the top frontcourts in the country for 2025.
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Final Thoughts
With these commitments, college basketball’s recruiting landscape continues to shift. Blue bloods like Duke, Kentucky, and UNC maintain their dominance, while programs like Texas Tech and Michigan State prove they can land top-tier talent and surprise the competition. The 2025 class is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent memory, with a mix of high-upside stars, international playmakers, and late-rising gems.
Each commitment has ripple effects across the college hoops world — shaping Final Four hopefuls, draft boards, and even future transfer portal movements. As NIL continues to influence decisions and programs get more creative in their pitch, expect more fireworks ahead.
One thing is certain: the race to March Madness glory is being built right now — recruit by recruit.