Tyran Stokes, the consensus No. 1 prospect in the Class of 2026, finally made his 2025 season debut on the Nike EYBL circuit. After months of speculation about whether he’d participate in AAU basketball this summer, Stokes silenced doubters by returning to the Oakland Soldiers for the Memphis session from May 16-18, 2025.
SLAM HS Hoops captured the electricity of the moment, sharing footage of Stokes’ jaw-dropping athleticism that quickly garnered over 15,000 views. The social media post reflected this highly regarded prospect’s return to high-level basketball and reaffirmed his status as one of the top candidates for the 2027 NBA Draft.
Tyran Stokes Returns to National Spotlight
“#1 ranked Tyran Stokes just made his EYBL season debut!” announced SLAM HS Hoops via X.
The post showcased Stokes soaring above defenders in his Oakland Soldiers uniform, reminding everyone why college programs have been aggressively pursuing him.
#1 ranked Tyran Stokes just made his EYBL season debut! 🚨@NikeEYB @Soldiers_Salute @tyran_stokes pic.twitter.com/MpbR58SBmc
— SLAM HS Hoops (@SLAM_HS) May 17, 2025
College coaches, including Kentucky’s staff, were in attendance to watch his highly anticipated 2025 season debut
In his 2025 EYBL season debut in Memphis on May 16, Stokes immediately showcased his all-around game with a strong double-double posting, 15 points, 12 rebounds, four steals, and three assists in nearly 30 minutes of action.
Despite his individual efforts, the Oakland Soldiers fell 64-54 to the NY Rens. His performance, which included six turnovers, reflected both his impact and some adjustment in his first EYBL game of the season.
Stokes’ 2025 debut performance built upon his impressive track record from previous EYBL action, where he’s averaged 19.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting an efficient 52.9% from the field.
Previous standout performances, including 31 points, eight rebounds, and five assists against The Family, and 29 points, four steals effort versus Mac Irvin Fire, had helped the Oakland Soldiers achieve a remarkable 14-1 record.
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The recruitment battle for Stokes continues to intensify, with Kentucky, Louisville, and Kansas emerging as key programs of interest. His decision to play in the Memphis EYBL session required postponing his scheduled Kentucky visit, though he’s already completed official visits to Louisville and Kansas.
College basketball observers note that Kentucky assistant Jason Hart has been leading the recruitment efforts for the Wildcats, suggesting the program’s serious interest in landing the 2026 star.
Stokes’ EYBL performances continue shaping his trajectory toward becoming a potential top pick in the 2027 NBA Draft. With his combination of physical tools, scoring ability, and improved playmaking, Stokes has given basketball fans exactly what they’ve been waiting for—a glimpse of basketball’s future unfolding before their eyes.
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