Another Five-Star Duke Target May Follow AJ Williams’ Reclassification
The high school basketball recruiting landscape shifted earlier this week when five-star prospect AJ Williams, the No. 1 overall player in the 2028 class, announced he would reclassify into the 2027 recruiting cycle.
Williams has long been a priority target for Duke, and the move accelerates his path to college basketball by one year. Unlike Marcus Spears Jr., who reclassified from the 2027 class to 2026 while still needing to spend two seasons in college, Williams remains eligible to declare for the 2028 NBA Draft after one collegiate season, making him a legitimate one-and-done prospect.
His decision could significantly influence how Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils approach their 2027 recruiting board. And Williams may not be the only elite recruit considering the same move.
Yann Kamagate Emerging as Another Reclassification Candidate
Following Williams’ move, 7-foot center Yann Kamagate has climbed to No. 2 overall in the 2028 class according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. The 230-pound big man has quickly established himself as one of the nation’s most intriguing long-term prospects.
Duke extended an offer to Kamagate in early July and has remained actively involved in his recruitment. The California standout also holds scholarship offers from several powerhouse programs, including Arizona, BYU, Michigan, Kentucky, Alabama, and Arkansas.
Kamagate’s stock has continued to rise throughout the summer, and Duke’s coaching staff has closely monitored his development. Members of the Blue Devils’ staff were present during grassroots events in June to evaluate the St. Francis High School standout firsthand.
Already an impressive athlete for his size, Kamagate runs the floor well, can handle the ball in transition, and possesses the physical tools to become a high-level two-way center. While his game is still developing, his upside has made him one of the most coveted young big men in the country.
NBA Eligibility Could Influence His Decision
Like Williams, Kamagate has the option to move into the 2027 recruiting class. Because he turns 18 on September 30, he would remain eligible for the 2028 NBA Draft if he reclassifies, preserving the possibility of becoming a one-and-done player.
CBS Sports Director of Basketball Scouting Adam Finkelstein recently discussed why Kamagate’s age makes reclassification a realistic option. According to Finkelstein, Kamagate is old enough to qualify for the NBA Draft after one college season while also fitting comfortably within the NCAA’s current eligibility framework.
Finkelstein noted that the decision will likely come down to Kamagate’s long-term goals. If he believes he’s ready to reach the professional ranks quickly, moving into the 2027 class makes sense. If he envisions spending multiple seasons in college to continue developing and maximize NIL opportunities, remaining in the 2028 class could be the better path. Finkelstein indicated he believes reclassification is the more likely outcome.
What It Could Mean for Duke’s 2027 Class
Williams’ arrival in the 2027 cycle already changes the outlook for Duke’s recruiting strategy. With an elite guard now available a year earlier, the Blue Devils may adjust their pursuit of other five-star backcourt prospects such as Beckham Black and Adan Diggs.
A Kamagate reclassification would create another important decision for Duke’s staff. The Blue Devils are already heavily involved with five-star center Lewis Uvwo, one of the premier frontcourt prospects in the 2027 class. If Kamagate also joins that recruiting cycle, Scheyer and his staff would have multiple elite interior prospects to evaluate as they finalize their recruiting priorities.
For now, Kamagate has not announced any plans to reclassify, but he remains one of the top prospects to watch. Should he follow Williams into the 2027 class, Duke’s recruiting strategy could undergo another significant adjustment.
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