Babatunde Oladotun to graduate early

Babatunde Oladotun, the top recruit for 2027, is moving up to graduate in 2026.

Top high school basketball player Babatunde Oladotun to graduate early

Babatunde Oladotun, ranked as the No. 1 player in the ESPN class of 2027, has announced his decision to reclassify to 2026 and will graduate in the spring from Blake High School in Maryland. At just 16 years old, Oladotun joins other elite players who have made similar moves, capitalizing on their skills developed in summer play. He has recently added 20 pounds to his frame and displayed impressive performance for Team Durant's 17U squad. Oladotun has set himself up as a candidate for next year's McDonald's All American game and a potential top-10 draft pick in the 2027 NBA draft, especially with the depth of that class.

Oladotun's decision reflects a growing trend among young athletes striving to fast-track their professional careers. As he follows in the footsteps of players like A.J. Dybantsa, this shift raises questions about the pressures young athletes face to perform at higher levels. With an evolving game and an impressive physical profile, Oladotun's recruitment from top schools is expected to heat up, showcasing the competitive nature of college basketball. His choice also highlights how the NBA's draft system incentivizes early graduation, particularly when evaluating talent. This decision will not only impact his immediate future on the court but could reshape the dynamics of recruitment strategies among college programs.

Highlights

Oladotun's decision is a notable step in the evolving landscape of youth basketball recruitment.