Exciting news for basketball fans! Bruce Branch III, previously ranked as the number one player in the 2027 class, has officially reclassified and will now be part of the 2026 class. This move is set to shake up the competition and adds even more talent to an already impressive group of young athletes.
Why the Reclassification?
The 6-foot-7 small forward from Prolific Prep (now in Florida, previously Gilbert, AZ) made the decision to move up after significant growth in his game. According to NBA.com, Branch stated that this decision provides him with the space to develop physically, mentally, and as a leader, without taking shortcuts.
Branch is already drawing comparisons to NBA star Paul George. A European scout noted his length, size, and all-around ability on both sides of the ball, highlighting his potential to be a highly sought-after player.
Colleges Eyeing Branch
Before the reclassification, Branch was already a highly sought-after prospect. He holds offers from several top universities, including Arizona, Kansas, Arizona State, UCLA, Xavier, West Virginia, Texas, Kansas State, and USC. Kentucky is also showing interest, with assistant coach Cody Fueger maintaining regular contact with Branch.
Fueger's approach emphasizes building a relationship with Branch, focusing on conversation and personal connection, which Branch values highly.
What This Means for the 2026 NBA Draft
Branch's reclassification makes him eligible for the 2027 NBA Draft. He will now be competing with other top prospects, including Tyran Stokes, for the number one overall pick. His performance on the adidas 3SSB circuit, where he averaged impressive stats while playing up a division, demonstrates his ability to compete at a high level.
Keep an eye on Bruce Branch III as he continues his journey to the NBA. His talent, combined with his dedication to development, makes him a player to watch in the coming years.
- Reclassification to 2026 class
- Interest from top universities
- Comparisons to NBA star Paul George
- Eligible for 2027 NBA Draft