The #1 ranked player in the class of 2026, Tyran Stokes is a truly intriguing talent. Very
few players Stokes’ age (16), create so many highlight worthy moments while playing the game with such poise and maturity. With a burgeoning jumpshot, and a knack for getting downhill with his next level size and athleticism, all Stokes has done thus far during his high school career is dominate. Often affectionately referred to as ‘baby Charles Barkley’, Stokes is a bruising yet agile force on the court. As his game continues to expand and develope, his list of accolades and career accomplishments will only continue to grow. The sky is truly the limit for Stokes, and if all things go according to plan, theres no reason to believe that a few years from now Stokes won’t be competing for the top spot in the 2027 NBA Draft.
Originally from Lousiville, Kentucky, Stokes has moved around quite a bit during his basketball journey. After moving to San Diego at a young age, and then to Atlanta, he eventually made his way to Northern California, to play his high school ball at Prolific Prep.
During Stokes’ time at Prolific Prep, he has continued to experience wild success. At Prolific Prep, Stokes is surrounded by a roster full of high end talent and top recruits. One of Stokes’ most noteworthy teammates is none other than AJ Dybantsa—the #1 recruit in the 2025 class, and former #1 recruit for the class of 2026. Together, Stokes and Dybantsa form one of the most dynamic and dominant duos in the country. In addition to playing his prep ball at Prolific Prep, Stokes plays his AAU ball for the Oakland Soldeirs in the EYBL, where he is one agin joined by another roster full of immense high level talent.
As previously mentioned, Stokes’ game carries a lot of similarities to that of Sir Charles Barkely, but perhaps with a bit of a modern twist. Even at 16, Stokes’ ability to shoot the long ball and gaurd out in space reflect a much more modernized set of skills than Charles ever had—no slight to the legendary Round Mound of Rebound of course. For my money, a closer more accurate pro comparison for Stokes’ game—at least in this current stage of development—is Miles Bridges of the Charlotet Hornets. Bridges is an explosive and versatile combo forward, who has proven early on in his career to be a capable 20+ ppg scorer.
Additionally, with a earily similar 6’7” 225lb frame, the comparisons almost make themselves. While Bridges has had some off-court troubles in the recent few years, theres no denying that his when he’s been able to be on-court, his production has reflected that of a borderline all-star. I’m willing to bet that with the right amount of coaching and development, Stokes has all the potential upside of Bridges and more.
Judging purely off of what we’ve seen so far during Tyran Stokes’ highschool career, the bouncy 6’7” forward is clearly on the course to NBA stardom. While factors such as where he decides to attend college, and who he decides to play for will surely play a key role in how he continues to develop as a player, one thing is already abundantly clear, the kid can play. Long, athletic, high motor players are always in high demand at the NBA level, and Stokes embodies all those traits at just 16 years old. If he can continue to dial in his consistency with his jumpshot, and continue to work on his handle and counter moves, his game will adapt seamlessly to the college and NBA game. With continued hard work, and a good bill of health, Tyran Stokes will be showing out on the NBA stage in no time.
