Tyran Stokes’ decision to skip Session I of the 2025 Nike EYBL circuit made many concerned about his plans, but his return in Memphis on May 17 has silenced doubters. Playing for the Oakland Soldiers, Stokes delivered a double-double with 15 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals, according to a post from Chief Content Officer of DSTRKT Digital, Alex Karamanos, on X.
His performance, though not as explosive as teammate Jason Crowe Jr.’s 35-point outburst, still showed his versatility and physical form.
Kansas, Alabama And Louisville All In Battle For Tyran Stokes’ Commitment
Stokes’ recruitment is a nationwide chase, with over a dozen blue-blood programs competing for his commitment. He completed an official visit to Louisville last October, leveraging his hometown ties, and toured Kansas in April 2025, where he posed with a national championship trophy.
Kansas coach Bill Self also left an impression on Stokes’ mother, Keaira. Stokes postponed a scheduled Kentucky visit (May 15-17) to play in Memphis but he can reschedule once again as he also has a visit to Arkansas on his list, according to the post made on X by Alex. Additional offers from Alabama, Auburn, Houston, Michigan, UCLA, and USC reflect his status as the top 2026 prospect.
2026 5 ⭐️ Tyran Stokes (@tyran_stokes) made his return to grassroots basketball after sitting out Session I of the @NikeEYB
Stokes put up a double-double, finishing with 15 PTS, 12 REB, 3 AST, and 4 STL
Has taken official visits to Kansas and Louisville
Planning on taking… pic.twitter.com/0RjdEftvws
— Alex Karamanos (@KaramanosAlex) May 17, 2025
At the Memphis Sports & Events Center, Stokes and the Oakland Soldiers faced a tough 1-2 record in Session II, including an 87-79 loss to Team Takeover, led by No. 4 Jordan Smith Jr. and No. 10 Qayden Samuels. Despite the loss, Stokes’ impact was undeniable, anchoring the Soldiers with his rebounding and defensive skills.
Stokes EYBL record so far is a feast for eyes, averaging 20.0 points and 8.3 rebounds last season, and his junior year at Notre Dame saw him post 21.0 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, earning California’s State Junior Player of the Year honors.
What’s Next?
Stokes’ upcoming visits to Kentucky and Arkansas will be significant for his career. Kentucky’s Mark Pope and assistant Jason Hart are pushing hard for his commitment, leveraging Hart’s California ties and the program’s legacy.
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However, Louisville holds a slight edge with a 42.7% chance of landing him, according to On3, but Kansas (37.3%) and others also remain a potential landing spot for this young star.
Stokes has full control over his commitment choice. His EYBL performances, like the 20.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per game at last year’s Peach Jam, further proves that he’s ready for the college stage. With Kentucky and Arkansas visits looming on the horizon, the next few months will be very important for his future.
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