Deron Rippey Jr - PG
One of Kelsey's top targets in the 2026 recruiting class is the 5-star phenom Deron Rippey Jr. The New Jersey native cut his list down to just 12 schools after earning over 44 offers, and the Cardinals indeed made the cut. Rippey has been one of Louisville's top targets as assistant coaches have visited his practices, and he was the first 5-star to visit Louisville last fall for the Tennessee matchup.
Now, Louisville has kept growing that relationship as Rippey ranks as a 5-star recruit, and as high as the No. 17 recruit in the nation. He is ranked as the No. 2 point guard in the country and the best New Jersey recruit after winning New Jersey Player of the Year. The Cardinals are given the fifth-best odds to earn his commitment, but it is a tight recruiting battle as Louisville was the favorite just a few months ago.
Related: Louisville fans holding breath after 5-star PG and top target names final 12