2026's Deron Rippey Jr. talks his early offers and updates his game
New York City basketball continues to be represented well over the years, despite people trying to say that the city and its players have lost their firepower in high school hoops. Now playing at Blair Academy in New Jersey, 2026 guard Deron Rippey Jr., a Brooklyn native, has watched his recruitment skyrocket this Spring and wants to continue to represent New York City, regardless of a transfer.
Rippey Jr’s game has blossomed on the EYBL circuit this year with the New York Lightning and continued on when I saw him over a month ago at the Mid-Atlantic Independent Team Camp, where he was one of the event's top performers.
His game continued to evolve during the summer and he earned himself an invite to USA Basketball’s U16 training camp. Rippey Jr. is widely considered a Top-10 guard in his class and I believe that will only rise as his sophomore campaign starts this fall.
In North Augusta this summer at Peach Jam, Rippey Jr. had a 30-point game and asserted himself as one of the best defensive guards in the building as well. When I saw him in Jersey, following Peach Jam, he just continued his dominance and it has led to a high-major recruitment.
Rippey Jr. discussed his early recruitment with Stockrisers.com and also discussed his game.
Which schools have already offered you a scholarship?
“Fordham, Hofstra, St. John’s, Oklahoma State, TCU, LIU, Binghampton, Washington.”
Are any new schools without an offer that are showing interest?
“Villanova, Texas A&M, George Washington, and some more coming.”
What are your overall thoughts on St. John’s and how did you feel when they offered?
“St. John’s is a school I’ve been watching since I was younger and I think it’s a great program, also a program I’d love to stay in contact with, with a hall-of-fame coach like Rick Pitino. I was excited when they offered it because I liked the program. Representing New York City is something I’d love to do in the future.”
How about Oklahoma State and Coach Boynton, a fellow New Yorker?
“Coach Boynton is an NYC guy so I think he’s going to bring a New York City mindset to the game which is a style I like to play. Oklahoma State is a very high-level program playing in the Big 12, and also a top school I’d love to build a relationship with. When they offered I felt very proud getting recognition from a high-level program, but also felt as if I still need to work harder if I want to prove I can play on a high level like Oklahoma State.”
How would you describe your interest in Villanova?
“I think it’s a great program to have interest from. It’s a top school in the country that has won championships in the past and has produced several pros, so having interest from them is exciting.”
When will you take visits?
“I am available to take visits but they would be unofficial. Right now I’m just focused on my sophomore season and when I’m able to speak to coaches on June 15th. Next year I will set some visits.”
How would you describe your on-court mentality?
“My on-court mentality consists of competitiveness, toughness, unselfishness, leadership, and trying to make winning plays.”
How would you describe your game?
“I’m a very gritty defender that can cause turnovers with on-ball pressure. I can make open shots, I have a high-IQ, and the ability to make high-level passes. I also think I’m pretty athletic for my height and the point guard position.”
And how would you like to improve?
“My jump shot and body strength are two main things I’m focusing on improving as of right now.”