It looks like this star is drawing a lot of attention from high-profile programs, including Duke and Louisville. With Duke associate head coach Chris Carrawell checking in, it’s clear that Smith is a top priority for the Blue Devils’ 2026 recruiting class. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 195 pounds, Smith is already physically mature for a junior guard, and his skill set has made him one of the most coveted players in his class.
Duke’s interest signals that they are looking to build for the future, especially with a dynamic guard like Smith, who could fit well into their system. Carrawell’s presence shows Duke’s commitment to recruiting him, while Louisville’s assistant Brian Kloman also being on hand highlights the competition for his commitment.
It’ll be interesting to see how Smith’s recruitment unfolds, especially with powerhouse programs like Duke and Louisville already heavily invested in him.
Jordan Smith Jr.’s recruitment is heating up, with several top-tier programs actively pursuing him. Ranked No. 7 overall and No. 3 among shooting guards on the 247Sports 2026 Composite, it’s no surprise that schools like Duke, Louisville, Arkansas, Syracuse, and Georgetown are heavily involved.
Each of these programs offers something unique: Duke’s reputation for developing elite guards and being a consistent contender for national titles, Louisville’s strong recruiting push under new leadership, Arkansas’ rising prominence under Eric Musselman, Syracuse’s legendary coaching staff with its unique system, and Georgetown’s efforts to rebuild under Ed Cooley.
Given Smith’s ranking and his clear talent, the competition to land him will be fierce. His decision may come down to how well he connects with the coaching staffs and which program presents the best fit for his playing style and long-term development.
2026 5⭐️ Jordan Smith Jr (@sm23itty) tells me that the following were in for him yesterday.
Louisville AC Brian Kloman
Duke AC Chris CarawellHe also states that Arkansas, Duke, Louisville, Syracuse and Georgetown have been in contact the most recently. pic.twitter.com/mpVFi7GpTR
— HS Top Recruits (@HSTopRecruiting) October 17, 2024
Duke’s strong connection with Paul VI Catholic High School and its track record of landing top talents from there could certainly work in their favor when it comes to Jordan Smith Jr.’s recruitment. With former Paul VI standouts like Jeremy Roach and Trevor Keels having made their mark at Duke, and current freshman Darren Harris already part of the Blue Devil family, Smith could be drawn to following in their footsteps.
His upcoming unofficial visit to Durham is a significant step in Duke’s pursuit, and it shows just how serious the Blue Devils are about landing the five-star guard. Given that this will be Duke’s first visitor for the 2026 class, it also speaks to the high regard Jon Scheyer and his staff have for Smith’s game and potential fit within their program.
While it’s too early to expect a commitment, the combination of Duke’s recruiting momentum, its connection to Paul VI, and the upcoming visit puts the Blue Devils in a strong position. Scheyer and his staff will likely use this opportunity to make a lasting impression and further solidify themselves as serious contenders for Smith’s talents.
Jordan Smith Jr. showing out at this year’s camp 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Ytdlm5OoO2
— Top 100 Camp (@Top100Camp) October 8, 2024
