2026 prospect TJ Crumble has scheduled five visits, talks recruitment
Despite being just a freshman, 2026’s TJ Crumble is already being considered one of the best in the country for his class. Likely due to his 6-foot-8, 190-pound frame, his ability to score at multiple levels, and his overall skillset.
We’ve seen the game evolve into shooting, but also seeing these high-level wings at 6’7 and 6’8 thrive and do things all over the court, It’s a big part of what the game is becoming and Crumble is a perfect example of that.
Crumble, even as a freshman, was able to provide major contributions for his Lutheran East (OH) squad which was able to capture a state title this season. He scored in double figures in both the semi-finals and final games. In addition, he’s playing on the EYBL circuit with All-Ohio’s 15U squad and hasn’t disappointed.
He’s averaging over 17 points, 4.5 boards, and is shooting over 60% from the field, and has hit a handful of three-point attempts. Crumble has asserted himself as one of the nation’s top-rated incoming sophomores and has had himself a big-time summer.
Crumble was just one of a small group of 2026 prospects that landed an invite to the Nike Elite 100 camp this past June. According to 247Sports, Crumble averaged 16.8 points and shot 61% from the field, and connected on 7/10 three-point attempts in 10 games this summer.
His recruitment is a reflection of his terrific play this summer and Crumble got with Stockrisers.com to discuss the visits he has planned and discussed a handful of potential suitors.
Which schools are heavily involved early?
“Been talking heavily with Michigan State and I’m going on a visit tomorrow [September 1st] and have some other visits planned. They have all been heavily in the mix and Notre Dame has recently been in touch and I’m planning a visit there soon.”
When are those visits?
“September 1st at Michigan State, Ohio State on September 16th, Texas A&M on September 23rd, October 6th at Illinois, and then on October 14th I’ll be at Cincinnati.”
And what are your overall thoughts on Michigan State and your opinion on the program?
“I like them a lot and have heard nothing but great things from my former teammate Jesse McCullough who has committed to them. It would be great to play under a legendary coach like Coach Izzo and a program that’s known for developing forwards.”
How about Illinois?
“I like them a lot and they’ve been a pretty successful program. I have a good relationship with Coach Frazier which is whom I've talked to most of the time. Coach Underwood has been there for a good amount of time so he’s had time to implement a system and knows which players he wants which means he believes I’d be a good part of the team.”
Cincinnati, thoughts on Coach Miller and his staff, plus the direction of the program?
“The program is headed in a great direction under the staff. When I went on my first unofficial visit there and I started talking to Coach Miller, I could immediately tell how important the game was to him and how much he wanted it for his players. His energy is infectious and it’s a plus being at an Ohio school and me being from here.”
And before we talk visits, is anything else planned or being planned?
“Those are the ones planned as of now, and I’m also planning on setting something up with Notre Dame as well. I am also visiting Ohio University on October 28th.”
How would you best describe your game?
“I have great IQ and look to get my teammates involved. I’m a good three-point shooter who can drive to the basket and I have great footwork around the basket with a soft touch.”
And how would you like to evolve this season?
“I’m looking to gain more athleticism and go from a good shooter to a great one.”