# ULTIMATE NEWS: Nation’s No. 1 Point Guard Deron Rippey Jr. Commits to Duke Basketball Over Miami, NC State, Tennessee, and Texas
**DURHAM, N.C. – December 30, 2025** – In a seismic shift for college basketball recruiting, Deron Rippey Jr., the consensus No. 1 point guard in the Class of 2026 and one of the top overall prospects in the nation, announced his commitment to Duke University during a live broadcast on CBS Sports HQ. The five-star standout from Blair Academy in New Jersey chose the Blue Devils over fierce competition from Miami, NC State, Tennessee, and Texas, instantly propelling Duke to the top spot in the 2026 team recruiting rankings.
Rippey Jr., known for his elite athleticism, menacing defense, and rapidly developing playmaking skills, capped a highly anticipated recruitment with a decision that underscores Duke head coach Jon Scheyer’s dominance on the trail. “The main reason I chose Duke is that I see myself playing at the highest level of college basketball and making an immediate impact,” Rippey said during his announcement. His pledge gives the Blue Devils their fourth commitment in the 2026 cycle—and third five-star—vaulting them ahead of programs like Michigan State, Kansas, Maryland, and Purdue.
At 6-foot-1 and 176 pounds, Rippey is a nightmare on defense, capable of locking down opponents with his quickness and length. Last season, he earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New Jersey after averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game. Scouts rave about his intangibles: a high basketball IQ, relentless motor, and ability to elevate teammates. While his offensive game is still refining—particularly his jump shot—Rippey’s all-around impact made him a priority for blue-blood programs nationwide.
Duke’s 2026 class was already loaded before Rippey’s addition. It includes five-star power forward Cameron Williams (No. 3-5 overall, from St. Mary’s in Arizona), five-star small forward Bryson Howard (top-15, son of former NBA player Josh Howard), and four-star center Maxime Meyer (a 7-foot-1 Canadian riser). With Rippey now leading the backcourt, the Blue Devils boast arguably the most talented incoming group in the country, blending size, versatility, and perimeter dynamism.
Scheyer, in his fourth year at the helm, has continued Duke’s tradition of landing elite talent. This marks another No. 1-ranked class under his leadership, following top hauls in recent cycles that featured stars like Cooper Flagg. “Coach Scheyer and his staff showed me a vision where I can develop into an NBA-ready guard while competing for championships from day one,” Rippey noted. Duke’s track record of one-and-done point guards—think Kyrie Irving, Tyus Jones, and Tre Jones—undoubtedly played a role.
The commitment is a massive blow to Rippey’s finalists. NC State and Miami, both ACC rivals, pushed hard with in-state and regional ties. Tennessee recruited him aggressively under Rick Barnes, emphasizing SEC competition. Texas, with its deep pockets and NBA pipeline, was seen as a dark horse. Yet Duke’s combination of prestige, development, and immediate opportunity won out.
Rippey’s decision highlights Scheyer’s recruiting prowess in the post-Mike Krzyzewski era. Despite facing stiff competition from transfer-heavy rosters across the sport, Scheyer has leaned into high school talent, building sustained contenders. Pairing Rippey’s ball-handling and defensive tenacity with Williams’ interior dominance and Howard’s shooting creates a foundation reminiscent of Duke’s championship teams.
For Duke fans, this is cause for celebration. The Blue Devils are coming off a strong season and now have a cornerstone for the future. Rippey’s arrival ensures Cameron Indoor Stadium will remain a must-watch destination, with national title aspirations intensifying.
As the early signing period approaches, eyes will turn to other top uncommitted 2026 prospects like overall No. 1 Tyran Stokes and shooting guard Jordan Smith Jr., both of whom have Duke in their mixes. But for now, the Brotherhood celebrates landing the nation’s premier point guard.
Rippey Jr. isn’t just a commit—he’s a statement. Duke basketball is back at the pinnacle of recruiting, and the future looks brighter than ever in Durham.
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