KANSAS

Kansas Hosting Nation's No. 1 Center in 2026 Class for Unofficial Visit

Ethan Taylor, a 7-foot center, is taking an unofficial visit to Kansas on Tuesday. He is the best center in the class of 2026.
Emmett Swendseid|
Nov 19, 2024; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self reacts during the second half against the North Carolina-Wilmington Seahawks at Allen Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Nov 19, 2024; Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self reacts during the second half against the North Carolina-Wilmington Seahawks at Allen Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

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Kansas Jayhawks

Amongst the excitement of Kohl Rosario committing to the Jayhawks, the work is never ending for Bill Self.

Earlier this morning, it was announced Bill Self and the Kansas Jayhawks are hosting Ethan Taylor, a 2026 prospect, for an unofficial visit today.

Taylor is a 4-star recruit who attends Link Academy. The 7-foot, 230-pound big is listed as the No.1 center in his class per On3.

Taylor is a Kansas City native, as he played for Shawnee Mission Northwest before transferring to Link Academy this summer for his final season.

During his junior season, Taylor averaged 14 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.81 blocks per game. His skill, along with his size and athleticism, has led him to become a top prospect in the 2026 class.

Taylor's recruitment skyrocketed this summer playing with Mokan Elite, as multiple big-name schools, including Baylor, Houston, Texas, and Florida State, made calls to him.

Although this is only an unofficial visit, it is a great sign to see, as this is not the first time Taylor has made his way to Lawrence to visit.

Taylor would be a perfect fit in the Bill Self system. He is a high-motor player and would be one of the many skillful bigs Bill Self has coached in his years at Kansas.

He would most likely take on a big role as well. Pairing him up with Flory Bidunga would be a sight to see. But if Bidunga were to leave for the draft, Taylor would have some big shoes to fill in Lawrence.

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Emmett Swendseid
EMMETT SWENDSEID

Emmett is a student at the University of Kansas majoring in sports journalism. He covers Jayhawk basketball and recruiting for The University Daily Kansan.

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