The real reason 5-star recruits are passing on Louisville and why It’s a good sign

In recent news, Louisville basketball has been getting crushing blows one after the other from the 2026 recruiting class. The Cardinals have had a rough week, not making 4-star and 5-star updated recruiting lists, and while it is devastating to see and learn at the time, all fans must know it is not the time to panic.

Louisville fans have found out in just the last week that they did not make the updated lists for 5-star small forward Anthony Thompson, 4-star power forward Latrell Allmond, and 4-star small forward Chris Washington Jr.. All three elite targets are top 40 recruits and are trending to be some of the best forwards in the 2026 cycle.

While it is heartbreaking to hear in the moment that they are moving on without considering Louisville, the Cardinals fans must know this is all a part of the plan and expected.

The real reason 5-star recruits are passing on Louisville and why It’s a good sign

Louisville isn't in the running for these elite forwards for one reason: Tyran Stokes. The Cardinals are one of the top targets to land Stokes' commitment, and with Louisville making it clear they are all-in on the 5-star small forward from Louisville, then why would other small forwards commit to the Cardinals to back Stokes up?

Thompson is a recruit that many fans were crushed about because he has exceptionally high potential as he is 6-foot-8 and ranks as high as No. 8 in the 2026 class and the second-best small forward in the cycle. Well, the player at small forward is Stokes.

And if Louisville is going to go out and land the No. 1 recruit in the class, then why would Thompson commit to Louisville to play behind Stokes? These top 30 recruits in class have dreams of going one-and-done and declaring for the NBA. That is why players sometimes commit to smaller schools, so they are the No. 1 option and can lead the program in their first year.

While missing out on these three players and most likely many future elite 4-stars and 5-stars is crushing, it is almost a good sign. It means Louisville is trending in the right direction with Stokes, and they are still one of his top schools.

The top three schools for Stokes are Louisville, Kentucky, and Kansas. He has visits with Oregon, USC, and Gonzaga scheduled, but his mom has made it seem like he is trying to commit before the senior season begins.

Louisville fans remain on edge for the No. 1 recruit in the 2026 cycle, but with all these 4-stars and 5-stars committing elsewhere, it is clear Louisville must land Stokes' commitment, and they must do whatever it takes because they are now missing out on crucial recruits. So, don't panic right now, and trust in Pat Kelsey, because with Stokes on the board, it becomes more evident that the Cardinals want the No. 1 recruit in the cycle more than anyone else.

For all the latest on Louisville basketball's offseason, stay tuned.