The Cats are in the hunt for this big-time recruit!

The Kentucky Wildcats are among 15 schools in contention for 2026 5-star forward Anthony Thompson.

Mark Pope and Cody Fueger visited Thompson this past week, and Thompson announced on his Instagram on Friday that he cut his list from 30+ schools to 15.

Kentucky joins the likes of Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, BYU, North Carolina, Louisville, Auburn, Indiana, Xavier, Texas, Notre Dame, Purdue, and Georgetown.

The 6’8 forward has risen up the recruiting rankings, rising as high as 5th overall in the 2026 class by ON3.

Thompson visited Kentucky earlier this year for Kentucky’s win over Florida in Rupp Arena. Here’s what he had to say about Kentucky following that visit.

“It was good to go there and see it in person. This was my first trip there, so it was good to see how they played in game and their play style live. I was watching their wings and what they do with Koby Brea and Jaxon Robinson.

They’re both shooters so I was able to see in person what they did. “I talk with the staff a lot. We call or text often. Coach (Mark) Pope is a great person and coach. He’s very positive and there for his players. He is a player’s coach, and always there to help out.”

Thompson also visited Kentucky for Big Blue Madness, where he received his offer.

There is a lot to like about the Lebanon, Ohio native. Thompson is 6’8 with a 7’3 wingspan who shoots the ball with efficiency from multiple spots on the floor.

It’s still obviously very early in this recruitment, but this is one to keep an eye on.