In a major development for BYU Basketball, 2026 top-25 recruit Chris Washington Jr. has committed to play for the Cougars, choosing them over a prestigious offer from Duke University. Washington, a 6’9″ forward from Texas, is widely regarded as one of the best players in the class of 2026, with his commitment marking a significant victory for BYU’s basketball program. This decision signals a new era for the Cougars, one that could elevate the team to new heights in college basketball.

 

Washington’s commitment is a testament to BYU’s growing influence in the basketball recruiting world. For years, the Cougars have been competitive within their conference and have built a reputation for developing skilled players, but landing a player of Washington’s caliber is a milestone for the program. The young forward, who was courted by several top-tier programs, had been on the radar of top college basketball programs since his early high school days. His decision to commit to BYU shows the Cougars’ ability to compete for elite talent, even against blue-chip programs like Duke.

 

The recruiting battle was intense. Duke, under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski and now Jon Scheyer, has historically been a dominant force in college basketball recruiting. They have produced some of the best players in the sport, sending numerous athletes to the NBA. The Blue Devils’ pitch to Washington was compelling, with the promise of playing in a basketball powerhouse and developing under one of the best coaching staffs in the country. However, despite the allure of Duke, Washington ultimately felt a connection to BYU and its unique environment.

 

A key factor in Washington’s decision was the role he would play in BYU’s future. As one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, Washington will be expected to come in and make an immediate impact on the court. His versatile skill set—combining elite scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive prowess—will allow him to contribute right away in a major way. Washington’s size and athleticism, paired with his high basketball IQ, give him the potential to be an NBA-caliber player, making his decision even more important for BYU’s future.

 

BYU’s coaching staff, led by head coach Mark Pope, played an instrumental role in securing Washington’s commitment. Pope has built a reputation for attracting top-tier talent and creating an environment where players can thrive both on and off the court. Washington was drawn to the family atmosphere at BYU, where he felt he could not only develop his game but also grow personally. The program’s values and emphasis on academics and personal development stood out to Washington, making the decision an easy one for him in the end.

 

Chris Washington Jr.’s commitment to BYU is a huge win for the Cougars, signaling that the program is ready to compete with the nation’s best. As one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, Washington’s decision will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the trajectory of BYU basketball. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this star forward will help elevate the program in the coming years.