Bruce Branch III Reclassifies to 2026, Eyes NBA Draft Next Year

BREAKING: Bruce Branch III, the No. 2-ranked basketball prospect for the 2027 class, has officially announced his decision to reclassify into the 2026 class, allowing him to compete in college basketball as early as next fall. This development comes just days ago, as Branch prepares to graduate from Prolific Prep in Florida in the spring of 2026.

In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Branch stated,

“I believe in my ability. I am confident that I can do this. I have been playing up my whole life. I am not going to let anyone outwork me.”

At just 17 years old, Branch’s reclassification puts him in a prime position to potentially enter the 2027 NBA Draft, where he could contend for the coveted No. 1 pick.

Branch has yet to visit colleges officially but is being pursued by top programs including Kentucky, Kansas, Louisville, USC, BYU, Arizona, Houston, and Miami. He indicated that a decision on his next steps could come as soon as this spring. “I want to focus on our season and my team. I want to win it all at Chipotle [Nationals],” Branch noted.

With an impressive performance over the past spring and summer, Branch averaged 15.9 points and 5.2 rebounds on the Adidas 3SSB circuit for the Compton Magic. His shooting stats from beyond the arc are particularly noteworthy, with a strong 39% success rate from 3-point range. Standing at 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, he boasts NBA-level athleticism that makes him a formidable player on the court.

Prolific Prep coach Ryan Bernardi emphasized Branch’s readiness for this challenge, stating,

“His work ethic will prepare him for this reclassification. He is emotionally stable; he does not get too high or too low.”

Branch’s decision is not just a personal milestone but could significantly impact the landscape of college basketball. As he transitions into the 2026 class, the competition for top recruits intensifies, particularly in a draft class that lacks the depth of talent found in 2026.

Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how this move will affect Branch’s recruitment and his potential future in the NBA. With the clock ticking down to his college debut, all eyes will be on Branch as he navigates the challenges ahead.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.