Kentucky basketball is in the mix for a class of 2026 4-star center Josh Irving of Pasadena High School (CA).
Irving is a 6-foot-11, 200-pound center who will officially visit Kentucky in October. While he does not yet have an offer from Kentucky, that will likely come by the time that visit concludes.
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During live evaluation periods in June and July, programs such as Kansas, Kentucky, and Texas A&M began actively pursuing Irving. While USC put in significant early work, the Wildcats are now seen as a serious contender.
In an article at Rivals, recruiting analyst Jamie Shaw logged a prediction for either Kentucky or Texas A&M to land Irving. Shaw gives a 30% chance of one of those two schools winning out, with USC still considered the biggest threat.
While it was USC that did a lot of the early leg work, sources are suggesting that the newcomers to the recruitment have opened Irving’s eyes. Keep watching which visits he goes on and if a commitment timeline starts to emerge.
Prediction: Texas A&M or Kentucky
Confidence Level: 30%
Biggest Threat: USC
Irving’s official visit schedule reflects the widening field of suitors. He will visit San Diego State on Aug. 21, SMU on Aug. 28, Kansas on Sept. 12, Louisville on Sept. 19, Texas A&M on Sept. 27, Kentucky on Oct. 10, and USC on Oct. 17. Observers say Kentucky’s program prestige and recent success in developing big men could make the Wildcats an appealing destination for the California native.
With October fast approaching, all eyes will be on Irving’s visit to Lexington. Kentucky fans will hope the Wildcats can use their reputation for developing elite big men, combined with playing time opportunities and program success, to sway Irving’s decision in their favor.
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If he commits to UK, it would be a major early win in the 2026 recruiting cycle and a statement about Kentucky’s continued national prominence in college basketball.
