If a player is the No. 1 player in Maryland, people tend to notice. And Qayden Samuels is just that. The 6’5″ shooting guard from Bishop McNamara is a name that simply cannot be ignored. He is ranked No. 20 nationally and No. 5 among shooting guards, per On3.
Samuels has already received offers from big names including UConn, Kansas, and Michigan. With a $316,000 NIL valuation and versatility to play multiple guard spots, Samuels is wanted by many. But there are five names that stand above the rest and are most likely to land Samuels.
Which Are the Top 5 Landing Spots for Qayden Samuels?
1. Georgetown
It is hard to say no to a college that is so close to home. And Georgetown is banking on that. Qayden Samuels lives just 20 minutes from campus, and the Hoyas’ entire staff is making sure he knows he’s wanted.
2026 5⭐️ Qayden Samuels tells @LeagueRDY these are among the schools he’s hearing from the most:
Georgetown
Alabama
Villanova
Syracuse
Washington
TexasThe five-star wing has had a phenomenal start to the AAU season and is one of the top scorers in EYBL play at 23.6PPG. #10 in… pic.twitter.com/Wxbi0rf0Ox
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) May 17, 2025
Samuels has been getting steady attention from Coach Ed Cooley and the Hoyas’ staff, who have been breaking down his performances and helping him sharpen his game with every outing. The local ties, personal attention, and clear role make this a real contender.
2. Villanova
Qayden Samuels has already made a trip to Villanova. And no doubt, the vibes were there. The high-energy practices have left a strong impression on him. Samuels’ smooth shooting stroke and ability to work off screens make Villanova’s system a good fit for him.
Head coach Kyle Neptune is actively pitching Samuels’ versatility as a weapon in their lineup. The program has got its momentum in place and has a system that feels tailor-made for a player like Qayden.
3. Alabama
Alabama only recently threw its hat into the ring. But nobody can sleep on the Crimson Tide. Nate Oats has made a name for himself by turning elite guards into national stars, and Qayden Samuels fits that mold.
The program is fast-paced, high-scoring style could play right into his strengths. Especially with his ability to get buckets and create off the dribble, the Crimson Tide is not a bad fit. Alabama’s late arrival could actually be its secret weapon. A fresh pitch with a pathway that is not too complicated.
4. Syracuse
The Orange might not be making as much noise on the court lately, but they’re definitely looking to land Qayden Samuels. Assistant coach Brendan Straughn has made it his personal mission to land Samuels. He checks in before each of Samuels’ games and reminds him just how much they love his game.
With a visit possibly in the works, Syracuse’s pitch is built around freedom and fit. And in a system that historically thrives with long, athletic guards, the Samuels-Syracuse duo could be a perfect match.
5. Washington
Washington may be struggling in the standings, but that hasn’t stopped them from swinging big. Washington may be struggling in the standings, but that hasn’t stopped them from swinging big. Danny Sprinkle’s staff is pushing hard, and Samuels noticed.
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Even with a six-game skid, Washington is selling itself as a place where the five-star guard could come in, be a difference-maker, and lead a resurgence. It is a bold pitch, and sometimes the boldest moves could lead to the biggest rewards. And for a player used to navigating tough seasons, that grit might just be what connects him with the Huskies.
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