In a surprising development, five-star point guard Taylen Kinney, a top prospect from Newport, Kentucky, is reportedly reconsidering his college commitment, with Arkansas emerging as a potential destination. This shift comes as the University of Kentucky’s men’s basketball program, under head coach Mark Pope, appears to be focusing its recruiting efforts on another elite point guard, Deron Rippey Jr. for the 2026 class.
Kinney, currently playing for Overtime Elite in Atlanta, Georgia, has been a significant target for several major programs. He previously expressed interest in Kentucky, praising their fast-paced play and strong team chemistry during his visit. However, the Wildcats’ strategic shift has opened the door for other programs to emerge as frontrunners in Kinney’s recruitment. Notably, Louisville and Kansas are now considered strong contenders for his commitment.
Additionally, Arkansas, under head coach John Calipari, has gained traction in recent weeks, further intensifying the competition.
