Tajh Ariza Eyes Kentucky Visit This Fall: “They’re Only Going to Get Better”
As the 2026 recruiting cycle begins to heat up, Kentucky basketball continues to make waves on the trail and one of their biggest long-term targets is paying close attention. Five-star forward Tajh Ariza, one of the top-ranked prospects in the country, says he’s planning a visit to Kentucky this fall, and his interest in Mark Pope’s rising program is only growing stronger.
Kentucky Staying Consistent
Ariza, a 6-foot-8 small forward out of St. John Bosco (Bellflower, CA), told KSR+ that Kentucky remains in consistent contact with him, even after his transfer to the powerhouse California high school and his summer run on the Nike EYBL Circuit with Team WhyNot.
“[Mark] Pope and Jason Hart talk to me every other day,” Ariza said. “They had a pretty good year considering they’re new to that environment. They did pretty well and made it to the tournament. They’re only going to get better.”
That growing confidence in Kentucky’s direction under Pope is noteworthy especially coming from a prospect as highly regarded as Ariza. Currently ranked No. 8 nationally by the On3 Industry Ranking and No. 6 by On3 overall, Ariza is one of the most versatile, athletic forwards in the class. He’s also the No. 4 small forward in the country and the No. 4 overall player in California.
What Tajh Sees in the Wildcats
Though Ariza hasn’t visited Lexington just yet, he’s been watching closely from afar. The Wildcats’ pace, spacing, and commitment to modern basketball have caught his eye.
“I like it because it’s a pro style,” Ariza explained. “They get out and run. Everybody fills their role.”
That last part “everybody fills their role” is key. For a player like Ariza, who prides himself on his versatility and two-way play, the appeal of Kentucky’s system is clear. Pope’s roster during his first season in Lexington featured length, shooters, athletes, and role acceptance things that not only win in college basketball but also prepare players for the next level.
Fall Visits Lining Up
Although Ariza hasn’t yet locked in a date for his Kentucky visit, he confirmed it’s firmly on the agenda for this fall. He’s also hearing frequently from Texas, USC, Michigan, and Kansas, and plans to take multiple official visits before making a decision.
“I don’t really have a set time for a commitment or any of that,” Ariza said. “I’m just weighing all of my options. It’s not going to happen for a little while still.”
While he’s previously made an unofficial visit to USC, Ariza has yet to take any official visits, making this fall a crucial stretch in his recruitment.
Game On: Ariza Shining on the EYBL Circuit
This summer, Ariza is showcasing his talents with Team WhyNot on the EYBL Circuit. Through the early part of the season, he’s averaging 8.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, highlighting his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. He tallied 14 points and nine rebounds in a tough loss to Drive Nation on Friday, continuing to demonstrate his readiness to play at the highest level.
“I want to show my versatility [this summer],” he said. “Being a defender, showing I can make plays, and getting in the lane.”
It’s that all-around game rebounding, defending, playmaking that makes Ariza such a coveted piece in the 2026 class.
Big Picture: A Star Watching the Rise in Lexington
For Kentucky fans, Ariza’s words are a clear signal: the Wildcats are in it, and they’re in it deep. In a class loaded with stars, he’s one of the brightest, and the program’s consistent communication and strong first year under Mark Pope are clearly resonating.
As fall visits take shape and the 2026 board starts to firm up, Tajh Ariza remains one of the crown jewels Kentucky is chasing and one who seems genuinely intrigued by what’s being built in Lexington.
With his visit coming in a few months and his recruitment still wide open, the ball is very much in play. And for Big Blue Nation, that’s exciting news.
Leave a Reply