Louisville basketball fans learned that one of their top targets and Kentucky native Taylen Kinney committed to the Kansas Jayhawks yesterday, and he is already making a crucial pitch to another 5-star.
Cardinals fans are heartbroken that Kansas stole Kinney from them, especially after so many experts reported Louisville as the heavy favorite in June and July. However, Bill Self took control of the race after their August visit, earned Kinney's commitment, and now the two will work together to try to steal another Kentucky native from Louisville.
The Rivals Joe Tipton reported that Kinney is already bringing another recruit with him, but the fans don't know who, and then also reported that Kinney is set on recruiting the nation's No. 1 recruit, and Louisville native, Tyran Stokes.
Taylen Kinney trying to bring Tyran Stokes with him
The Cardinals were once again a dominant favorite to land Stokes, as they earned a visit from the 5-star small forward in 2024. However, since he has visited Kansas, many experts now believe the Jayhawks are right there with Louisville or a slight frontrunner.
But now, with Kinney committing to Kansas over Louisville, it is clear that the No. 1 point guard is immediately recruiting the No. 1 recruit to join him at Kansas and steal him straight from Kelsey's backyard.
I asked Tay Kinney who he plans to recruit with him to Kansas. His response:
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) September 28, 2025
"Shoot, I already know one that's coming. Right when I said I was going, I put that call in. I ain't going to say his name, but he going to announce.
“And then trying to get Tyran (Stokes).” https://t.co/HuN6CPdfOl pic.twitter.com/E2PDqGrgYt
It isn't common for the city of Louisville to produce the No. 1 recruit in the nation, making this a massive opportunity for the future of the Cardinals program. Stokes has a chance to skyrocket this program and take Louisville to another level, but Kinney is clearly already trying to recruit him to Kansas, and Louisville fans fear the worst.
Kelsey has worked some magic during his time with Louisville, but he must pull off a miracle to land Stokes over Kansas, Kentucky, and Oregon. Stokes' commitment would have massive implications for the Cardinals' 2026-27 season. Whoever lands Stokes will see many recruits follow, as he improves the play of many players and can increase the NBA Draft stock of elite recruits.
Kinney's commitment hurts because the Kentucky native chose another Adidas school over Louisville and his home state, but also because Kansas now has the upper hand on Stokes and possibly many other top recruits.
Related: Louisville must land this 5-star recruit or Cardinals will face major consequences
For all the latest on Louisville basketball's offseason and recruiting, stay tuned.