Baba Oladotun trims list to four schools, keeping Arkansas in mix

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Baba Oladotun, one of the top basketball recruits in the country, has narrowed his list of schools to four.

The five-star small forward in the Class of 2026 is down to Kentucky, Georgetown, Maryland and Arkansas, he told Rivals.

Oladotun, who plays at James Hubert Blake High School in Maryland, is ranked No. 7 overall in the 2026 class and the No. 1 player in his state.

The 6-foot-8 prospect also ranks No. 3 nationally among small forwards, according to the Rivals Industry Rankings.

He has collected more than 50 scholarship offers.

Kansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Michigan, Louisville and BYU are among the programs that have offered.

Oladotun has taken visits to each of his four finalists.

He said every school left a strong impression, though he has not set a timeline for his decision.

Each of his finalists offers something different for the 17-year-old forward.

final 4!! ❤️💛🩶💙 pic.twitter.com/K6Y7aguw2h

— Baba Oladotun (@babaoladotun_) November 4, 2025

Recruiting breakdown

Kentucky has a long record of producing NBA talent.

Georgetown offers a chance to help rebuild a once-proud program.

Maryland gives him an option to stay close to home, while Arkansas provides an SEC stage and proven player development.

Oladotun said he enjoyed the visits and the chance to meet with coaches.

“They all showed me how I could fit in and help right away,” he said.

Rivals national recruiting analyst Jamie Shaw said Oladotun’s length and shooting touch make him a high-upside prospect.

“You immediately notice the length and the frame,” Shaw said. “The jump shot is what he does, and it’s where his production comes from right now.”

“His footwork is clean, and he’s confident off the bounce or the catch,” Shaw added. “He’ll need to add weight and become a more consistent rebounder, but the upside is there.”

Scouting and future outlook

Oladotun’s high release, balance and athleticism make him a threat as both a pull-up and catch-and-shoot scorer.

Scouts also see defensive potential as he continues to grow stronger and adds weight to his 6-8 frame.

Oladotun has not announced a decision date, but more visits and conversations with coaches are expected.

His recruitment will be closely followed heading into 2026, with all four schools making him a top priority.

Whichever program lands him will gain one of the most versatile and skilled forwards in the class.

Key Takeaways

• Baba Oladotun is a five-star 2026 forward with four finalists: Kentucky, Georgetown, Maryland and Arkansas.

• He is ranked No. 7 overall nationally and No. 1 in Maryland.

• Analysts praise his shooting and athleticism while noting he can add strength and rebounding consistency.