5-star C Obinna Ekezie Jr. picks Louisville, reclassifies to ’26

Field Level Media|published: Sun 3rd May, 19:53 2026

NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament Second Round-Louisville at Michigan State

Mar 21, 2026; Buffalo, NY, USA; Louisville Cardinals head coach Pat Kelsey looks on during the first half against the Michigan State Spartans during a second round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Keybank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Obinna Ekezie Jr., one of the top recruits in the Class of 2027, will reclassify to 2026 and join Louisville next season, he announced Sunday.

The 7-footer was the No. 4 overall prospect in the 2027 class, according to the 247Sports composite rankings.

He was also considering Arkansas, BYU and Maryland, where his father starred before going on to play four NBA seasons.

"I have chosen to commit to University of Louisville as I feel it's the best situation to develop, showcase my game and strive to win a national championship," the younger Ekezie told multiple outlets in a statement.

Ekezie is finishing his junior year of high school at Southeastern Prep in Orlando, Fla.

He joins an incoming Louisville class that was previously without a true freshman but is packed with transfers. Coach Pat Kelsey attracted top transfers Flory Bidunga (Kansas), Jackson Shelstad (Oregon), Karter Knox (Arkansas) and Alvaro Folgueiras (Iowa) this offseason.

--Field Level Media

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