CONFIRMED: No. 1 High School Basketball Star Quinn Costello Commits to Kentucky Wildcats
In a groundbreaking decision that has rocked the college basketball landscape, Quinn Costello—the nation’s No. 1 high school basketball recruit and a four-star power forward from the class of 2026—has officially committed to the University of Kentucky. Costello’s announcement, made via a live social media stream and confirmed by multiple recruiting outlets, sends a bold message as he turns down top-tier programs like Duke, USC, and Alabama in favor of joining the storied Wildcats.
Costello, a 6-foot-9 powerhouse with elite footwork, an explosive vertical, and a silky mid-range shot, has been at the center of national recruiting buzz for more than a year. With offers from every major program in the country, the high school phenom narrowed his final choices to Kentucky, Duke, USC, and Alabama before ultimately making his decision known on Thursday afternoon.
“I wanted to be part of something bigger than just a basketball team,” Costello said during his commitment announcement. “At Kentucky, it’s more than hoops—it’s tradition, it’s family, and it’s a brotherhood that goes back decades. Coach Calipari showed me a vision for who I could become, not just as a player but as a leader. That’s what set Kentucky apart.”
The commitment is a massive win for John Calipari and his coaching staff, who have made it clear they are rebuilding a dominant foundation after a few rocky tournament runs in recent years. Bringing in a generational talent like Costello could mark a turning point for the program’s future.
“This is the type of player who changes the course of a season—and a program,” Coach Calipari said in a statement. “Quinn brings intensity, intelligence, and leadership to the floor. We’re thrilled to welcome him into the Wildcat family.”
Costello averaged 23.4 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game during his junior season at Oak Hill Academy, leading his team to a national top-5 ranking. Scouts rave about his ability to control the paint while also being a serious perimeter threat, a rare skill set that has NBA executives already keeping close tabs on him.
His decision to join Kentucky is also seen as a signal to other elite players that the Wildcats are once again a prime destination for those with NBA aspirations. Costello hinted that more commitments may follow.
“I’ve been talking to a couple of other guys—some big names,” he said with a grin. “I think they liked what they saw today.”
For Big Blue Nation, the future just got a lot brighter. With Quinn Costello’s commitment, Kentucky lands not just a star on the rise, but a potential program-changer poised to carry the Wildcats back to the pinnacle of college basketball.
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