BYU Basketball Lands First 2026 Commit, Pursues Top Talent

0:00On March 24, BYU basketball just picked up its first commitment for the 2026 recruiting class. Four star-wing Dean Ruikard made the announcement and Hillin wrote early next spring for the April term. His family confirmed he plans to skip a mission and jump right into competing for minutes on the wing, filling spots left by departing players. Earlier this week, Ruikard's pledge gave the Cougars a solid start to the cycle. Now, coaches under Kevin Young are pushing hard for more top talent with several high-profile visits on the horizon. Fans and recruits alike are buzzing about BYU's momentum. Five star-guard Austin Goosby has a visit set for late September, and despite family ties to Texas and interest from Duke, his connections to the program run deep through family in Utah. Meanwhile, the staff is eyeing Junior College star KJ Perry for Point Guard Depth, with his official visit coming up mid-September. Four star Anthony Filesi plans to wrap his trips at BYU, hosted by a current player,

1:02while five star-forward Jalen Montanati remains a fresh target. After a May offer, the biggest name in play is five star-wing Baba Ola Doton, who reclassified from 2027 in plays on Kevin Durant's AAU team. His family prioritizes faith-friendly campuses and strong development, keeping BYU squarely in the mix as visits unfold.