Kentucky basketball has added a new 2026 recruiting target

Kentucky basketball has added a new 2026 recruiting target

The Kentucky Wildcats and coach Mark Pope finally got their first recruit in the 2026 class this week by adding point guard Mason Williams. They're still also working to land top overall recruit Tyran Stokes. In the meantime, they have identified a new target, former Alabama Crimson Tide commit Chris Washington Jr.

According to Kentucky Sports Radio, Kentucky has reached out to Washington via his AAU coach, Bobby Maze. Washington also told KSR himself that his recruitment was open and indicated that there wasn't a favorite at the moment.

Washington is a 6'9", 195 forward from Tennessee with a ton of upside. He's rated four stars by 247Sports and is ranked as their No. 49 overall player in the class. His athleticism is obvious, and he could develop into a an elite player in the right situation. Pope hopes that Kentucky is that situation.

There is currently no timetable on a commitment from Washington. He said, "Honestly, I just want to go where I’m wanted — and the play style. I got to go where I fit in and where the coaches really want me."

It could be some time before Washington makes a decision. The Tennessee Volunteers are considered the favorite, but Pope will try to change that. We will update the story as more develops.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky basketball targets new player in 2026 recruiting class