Duke lands prized PG Deron Rippey Jr., third 2026 5-star commitment

Duke lands prized PG Deron Rippey Jr., third 2026 5-star commitment

Duke basketball added another jewel to its future backcourt on Tuesday, landing a commitment from five-star point guard Deron Rippey Jr., one of the most electric prospects in the 2026 class. With Rippey’s pledge, the Blue Devils now boast their third five-star commitment for 2026, further solidifying a recruiting class that is shaping up to be among the nation’s best.

Rippey Jr., widely regarded as one of the top point guards in his class, chose Duke after a highly competitive recruitment that featured interest from several traditional powerhouses across the country. Known for his elite feel for the game, quick first step, and advanced playmaking instincts, Rippey is the type of floor general who can control tempo, create scoring opportunities for teammates, and take over games when needed.

At 6-foot-2 with a strong, athletic frame, Rippey blends speed and strength in a way that makes him difficult to keep out of the paint. He excels at breaking down defenders off the dribble and has shown a growing confidence as a perimeter shooter, forcing defenses to respect his pull-up jumper. Beyond the scoring, his court vision stands out most. Rippey consistently delivers passes on time and on target, a trait that has drawn comparisons to some of Duke’s past standout guards.

For head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff, Rippey’s commitment is another major recruiting win. Duke has placed a strong emphasis on securing elite guard play in recent classes, and Rippey fits perfectly into that vision. His leadership qualities and competitive edge align with the Blue Devils’ culture, making him not just a talent addition, but a tone-setter for the class.

Rippey joins an already stacked 2026 Duke recruiting group that features multiple five-star prospects, giving the Blue Devils a strong foundation on both ends of the floor. The balance of skill sets within the class suggests Duke is building for versatility, with players who can defend multiple positions, push the pace, and thrive in high-pressure situations.

On the national stage, Rippey’s decision sends a clear message: Duke remains a premier destination for elite guards with professional aspirations. Recruiting analysts project Rippey as a potential one-and-done candidate, given his polish and high basketball IQ at an early age. His commitment also adds momentum to Duke’s future recruiting efforts, as top prospects often gravitate toward classes filled with other high-level talent.

As Rippey Jr. continues his high school and AAU career, expectations will only grow. For now, Duke fans can celebrate landing one of the crown jewels of the 2026 class. With Deron Rippey Jr. in the fold, the Blue Devils’ future at the point guard position looks as bright as ever.