Duke University’s basketball program, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, has consistently been at the forefront of college basketball, not only in terms of on-court performance but also in its ability to recruit top-tier talent. As the 2026 recruiting class begins to take shape, the Blue Devils are actively pursuing some of the nation’s most promising high school prospects, aiming to continue their legacy of excellence. Among these prospects, several stand out due to their exceptional skills, potential, and the interest they have garnered from Duke’s coaching staff.
One of the most notable recruits in the 2026 class is Brandon McCoy Jr., a 6-foot-4 point guard from St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, California. McCoy is currently ranked as the No. 1 player in the class by 247Sports Composite rankings. His impressive performance on the court, including leading his team with 18.6 points per game and finishing his sophomore season with a team-high 8.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists, has caught the attention of several top programs, including Duke. The Blue Devils extended an offer to McCoy in July 2024, marking a significant step in their recruitment efforts for the class of 2026.
Another highly sought-after prospect is Christian Collins, a versatile 6-foot-8 forward from St. John Bosco High School. Collins is ranked No. 3 overall in the 2026 class and No. 1 among power forwards by 247Sports. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively has made him a standout player. Duke recognized his potential and extended an offer to Collins in April 2025. Collins has also received offers from other prestigious programs, including Alabama, Arizona, and Kansas, indicating the level of competition for his commitment.
Sebastian Wilkins, a 6-foot-8 forward from Brewster Academy in New Hampshire, is another key target for Duke. Wilkins is ranked No. 28 overall in the 2026 class and is considered one of the top power forwards in the country. His performance in AAU competitions and highlight reels has showcased his potential, leading to interest from several programs, including Duke. The Blue Devils extended an offer to Wilkins in April 2025, and he is expected to announce his college decision soon, with Duke and Maryland reportedly among his top choices.
Jordan Smith Jr., a 6-foot-3 guard from Paul VI Catholic High School in Virginia, is another prospect who has caught Duke’s attention. Smith is ranked No. 8 overall in the 2026 class and has been a standout performer in various competitions, including the USA U17 Men’s National Team, which won the World Cup in 2024. His performance at the Nike EYBL Peach Jam further solidified his status as one of the top guards in the class. Duke extended an offer to Smith in July 2024, making him the first 2026 recruit to receive an offer from the Blue Devils.
Miikka Muurinen, a 6-foot-10 forward from Compass Prep in Arizona, is another international prospect who has garnered interest from Duke. Muurinen, originally from Finland, is ranked No. 6 overall in the 2026 class and has impressed scouts with his skills and potential. Duke’s coaching staff has been actively involved in his recruitment, and Muurinen has scheduled a visit to Duke as part of his recruitment process.
In addition to these top prospects, Duke is also monitoring other talented players in the 2026 class. Jalen Montonati, a 6-foot-7 wing from Owasso High School in Oklahoma, is ranked No. 13 overall in the class and has received offers from several programs, including Duke. His performance at the NBPA Top 100 Camp caught the attention of Duke’s coaching staff, leading to increased interest in his recruitment.
Hassan Koureissi, a 6-foot-3 guard from Archbishop Stepinac High School in New York, is another prospect who has expressed interest in Duke. Koureissi is ranked No. 120 overall in the 2026 class and has mentioned Duke as one of his “dream schools.” While it may be early in his recruitment, his potential and interest in Duke make him a player to watch in the coming months.
Duke’s recruitment efforts for the 2026 class reflect the program’s commitment to maintaining its status as a powerhouse in college basketball. By targeting a diverse group of top-tier prospects, both domestic and international, the Blue Devils aim to build a roster that can compete at the highest levels. The coming months will be crucial as these recruits make their decisions, and Duke’s coaching staff will continue to evaluate and pursue the best talent available.
The competition for these top prospects is fierce, with programs like Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA also vying for commitments. However, Duke’s rich history, elite coaching staff, and commitment to player development make it an attractive destination for these young athletes. As the 2026 recruiting class continues to take shape, all eyes will be on Duke to see how they navigate this competitive landscape and continue to build a championship-caliber program.
In conclusion, Duke’s pursuit of top-three prospects in the 2026 class underscores the program’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its strategic approach to building future success. With a combination of domestic and international talent, the Blue Devils are positioning themselves to remain at the forefront of college basketball recruiting. As these young athletes make their decisions, Duke will continue to be a prominent player in the recruiting landscape, aiming to add the next generation of stars to its storied program.
