BY ALEJANDRO LOPEZ
Nike has secured NIL deals with two of the top recruits in the Class of 2026.
Five-star prospects Tyran Stokes and Brandon McCoy will join the Nike brand, Nike announced on Friday.
One of the top prospects in girls’ high school basketball, Aaliyah Chavez, also signed with The Swoosh.
Chavez and Stokes are the No. 1 recruits in their respective classes, with McCoy ranking as the No. 6 player in the Class of 2026, according to 247Sports.
Stokes and McCoy are nearing their decisions for their new home at the next level.
McCoy took a recent visit to Alabama at the end of September.
“Honestly, getting the deal makes me even hungrier to get better on the court and be a better person off the court,” McCoy told Nick DePaula.
“Nike isn’t just a logo. It’s not just a brand,” Chavez told SLAM. “It’s more about legacy.”
Stokes, who has recently been trying his hand as a football player in his last high school season, sees the deal as an opportunity to help other young athletes.
“I also want to work with Nike to connect with young athletes and give feedback on our footwear and apparel,” Stokes said. “Not just from me, but from my community.”
Nike has made a huge swing with basketball’s future, securing three of the brightest stars rising in the sport.
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