Discussing the next steps with five-star recruit Deron Rippey Jr.

There aren’t many names bigger in the 2026 recruiting class than Deron Rippey Jr. The talented guard has put on a show everywhere he’s been, which is why Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats are in pursuit of a commitment.

Rippey is a 6’2″, 175 lb point guard out of New Jersey. He is currently rated five stars in the 247Sports composite rankings, and is ranked number 16 overall in the 2026 class. He has been in the top ten at times, and could certainly rise as the year goes on.

A lot of big decisions face Rippey leading up to the biggest of all: Where to begin his college basketball career with. To get some of his thoughts, UKWildcatsWire’s Vance Meek spoke with Rippey and his father to discuss Kentucky, Coach Pope, and Big Blue Nation.

Being a top recruit has its perks, but Rippey made it clear that he knows it’s not all fun and games. “Honestly it’s a blessing to be recruited by all the schools, but I would say it comes with a lot of responsibility.” He mentioned the amount of work necessary to stay on top of his game and said, “My goal is to play at those schools and show other people that I can come in right away and make an impact.”