Christian Collins, a 6-foot-8 forward from Bellflower, California, has rapidly ascended to the top of the 2026 basketball recruiting class. Once an unranked prospect, Collins now holds the No. 3 spot nationally, according to On3’s Industry Ranking. His meteoric rise has caught the attention of college basketball powerhouses, including Duke University. The Blue Devils have intensified their recruitment efforts, recognizing Collins as a potential cornerstone for their future roster
Collins’ journey to prominence began at St. Bernard High School before transferring to St. John Bosco, where he joined forces with fellow five-star recruit Brandon McCoy Jr. His performance on the Nike EYBL circuit with Team Why Not showcased his versatility and skill set. Averaging 15.7 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, Collins demonstrated his ability to impact various facets of the game. His athleticism, length, and two-way potential have made him a coveted prospect among elite programs
Duke’s interest in Collins is evident. Associate head coach Chris Carrawell has been in regular contact with the young forward, emphasizing the program’s commitment to player development and family-like atmosphere. Collins has expressed his appreciation for Duke’s approach, noting the strong connections he has developed with the coaching staff . This relationship aligns with Collins’ desire to find a college environment that feels like home and fosters rapid development, potentially leading to an early entry into the NBA.
Beyond Duke, Collins’ recruitment has garnered interest from several other top-tier programs. Schools such as Kentucky, Alabama, Arizona, and Texas have extended offers, recognizing his potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level . Kentucky, in particular, has been proactive in their pursuit, with head coach Mark Pope visiting Collins during a West Coast recruiting trip
Despite the growing attention, Collins remains focused on his development. He acknowledges the pressures that come with being a highly ranked recruit but emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and continuing to improve. His commitment to growth is evident in his performance on the court and his approach to the recruiting process.
As Collins continues to evolve as a player, his decision will have significant implications for the programs vying for his commitment. Duke, with its rich basketball tradition and commitment to player development, is well-positioned to make a compelling case. However, the competition remains fierce, and Collins’ decision will likely come down to which program aligns best with his aspirations and values.
In conclusion, Christian Collins’ rapid rise in the recruiting rankings underscores his talent and potential. Programs like Duke are keenly aware of his abilities and are actively pursuing him to bolster their future rosters. As the recruiting process unfolds, all eyes will be on Collins to see where he ultimately decides to continue his basketball journey
