Deron Rippey Narrows College Choices; Syracuse Excluded

In a significant development for the 2026 recruiting class, Deron Rippey, a highly sought-after 5-star prospect, has reduced his list of potential college destinations to five. Notably, Syracuse University did not make the cut. This news was first reported by On3.com.

Rippey, who is currently ranked as the No. 1 point guard in the 2026 class, has eliminated several prestigious programs from consideration, including Syracuse, North Carolina, Kentucky, and Louisville. The five schools still in contention for his commitment are Miami, Duke, Tennessee, NC State, and Texas.

Recruiting Process Details

According to statements from Rippey’s father, Deron Rippey Sr., there is no set timeline for a decision. He shared with NJ.com, “We are in no rush.” This comment highlights the family’s approach to the recruiting process, emphasizing careful consideration over haste.

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Rippey is a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., and currently plays for Blair Academy in New Jersey. His impressive performance has placed him at No. 13 in the 2026 class according to On3, and No. 18 by ESPN.

Earlier this fall, Rippey visited the campus of Syracuse, where he evaluated the program’s fit for his future. Despite this visit, Syracuse has yet to secure a commitment from any players in the 2026 class, which is a notable concern for the program. Currently, the Orange’s roster includes only one senior, guard JJ Starling.

The narrowing of Rippey’s list marks a critical moment in his recruitment, as he approaches a decision that could significantly impact his future college career. With five schools still in the running, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which program ultimately earns his commitment.