The University of Kentucky’s basketball recruiting efforts ramped up this week as head coach Mark Pope and his staff paid a personal visit to elite 2026 prospect Jordan Smith Jr., a top-10 national recruit drawing attention from several powerhouse programs.
Smith Jr., a 6-foot-7 wing out of Montverde Academy (FL), is widely regarded as one of the most dynamic scorers and versatile defenders in the class. Known for his explosive athleticism, three-level scoring, and high basketball IQ, he has already earned comparisons to recent NBA lottery picks.
According to recruiting insiders, Kentucky’s visit was part of a broader push to secure a top-tier 2026 class, and Smith Jr. is considered a high-priority target. The in-home visit reportedly went well, with the Wildcats emphasizing their development system, NBA pipeline, and Pope’s vision for the program’s future.
“It’s clear Kentucky is serious about making Jordan a centerpiece of their 2026 class,” said one recruiting analyst. “They’re showing him that he would be a focal point from day one.”
Smith Jr. also holds offers from Duke, Kansas, UConn, and Alabama, with official visits expected to begin later this summer. Kentucky’s early personal outreach could give them an edge as his recruitment heats up.
