Louisville basketball gets a huge update from an elite 5-star recruit. The Cardinals learn they are one step closer to landing one of the top recruits in the 2027 recruiting class, Obinna Ekezie Jr., as the 5-star cut his list to just five schools.
Every NCAA Transfer Portal player who committed to Louisville basketball so far
The Cardinals are now in a heated recruiting battle with major programs, including BYU, Maryland, Arkansas, and their in-state rival, the Kentucky Wildcats, according to On3 Sports Joe Tipton.
NEWS: 5⭐️ Obinna Ekezie Jr. is down to five schools, his agency THE·TEAM told @Rivals.
— Joe Tipton (@JoeTipton) April 27, 2026
The 7-foot center is the No. 2 overall player in the 2027 class and is a potential reclass candidate.https://t.co/RiJKtyRhGe pic.twitter.com/ucc9qmaCft
Louisville makes final five for elite 5-star center Obinna Ekezie Jr.
The Cardinals continue to make a strong push for Ekezie, as the Cardinals recently hosted the unanimous 5-star for an official visit. Pat Kelsey and the Cardinals continue to make a strong push this offseason, as Ekezie ranks in the 2027 recruiting class, there are rumors he might reclass to the 2026 recruiting class.
Kelsey and the Cards are currently having a dominant spring so far, as they rank No. 1 in the portal rankings. Louisville is rebuilding its roster for the 2026-27 season, and Ekezie would be a huge boost. Right now, he ranks as high as the No. 2 overall recruit in the 2027 cycle, and No. 1 among centers.
If he does decide to reclass, he would be a massive addition to Louisville’s frontcourt as the 7-footer would join Flory Bidunga, the No. 1 overall transfer and the No. 1 center from the Transfer Portal. If he decides to stay in the 2027 recruiting class and the Cards do land his commitment, he would join Louisville’s two commits already, 4-star Ferlandes Wright and 3-star guard Isaac Ellis.
The 5-star transfer is an elite rim protector who is dominant in the paint on both ends of the court. The Cards will now battle Kentucky, BYU, Arkansas, and Maryland for the elite center. Before he cut the list down, he earned over 32 offers from big-time programs like Michigan, North Carolina, Alabama, USC, and many other powerhouse schools.
Related: Pat Kelsey and Louisville basketball making major push for 5-star after key visit
For all the latest news and updates on Louisville basketball's offseason and recruiting, stay tuned.
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