Kentucky makes the cut for No. 2 overall recruit Obinna Ekezie Jr., a possible reclass candidate

TORRANCE, CA - FEBRUARY 13: Southeastern Prep forward Obinna Ekezie Jr. (15) shoots a shot during warmups before the Grind Session Los Angeles high school basketball tournament on February 13, 2026 at El Camino College in Torrance, CA. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Kentucky Wildcats are still trying to build out their roster for the 2026-27 season, but they’re also starting to pick back up in recruiting the high school ranks for the class of 2027.

Mark Pope went to pay one top-10 player in the class a visit on Monday, and now, the Cats have made the cut for another top-five player in the class.

According to a report by Joe Tipton of On3, 5-star center Obinna Ekezie Jr. has trimmed down his list of schools to five, with Kentucky making the cut. Ekezie ranks No. 2 overall in the 2027 class in the Rivals Industry Ranking.

Also included are Louisville, Arkansas, BYU, and Maryland. Tipton also reports that Ekezie is also a recalssification candidate, so there’s a chance Kentucky is working to get him on campus for next season.

A 7-foot, 220-pound center who’s the son of former NBA player Obinna Ekezie, the younger Ekezie plays his high school basketball for Southeastern Prep in Orlando. Coming off of three visits to Arkansas (April 17th), Louisville (April 24th), and BYU (April 26th), the big man’s recruitment seems to be picking up.

Will Mark Pope and the staff be able to pick up some momentum?