Lebanon forward Anthony Thompson (5) chases after a loose ball Tony Tribble for The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

5-Star Forward in 2026 Recruiting Class Includes Purdue in Top-15

Originally posted on Purdue Boilermakers on SI
By Dustin Schutte | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 5:23 PM ET

One of the top prospects in the 2026 class is still considering a commitment to Purdue. Friday, five-star forward Anthony Thompson revealed the top-15 schools he's still considering, with the Boilermakers still in the mix.

Thompson is a 6-foot-7 forward out of Ohio who ranks as the No. 9 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class. Along with Purdue, he's also considering Michigan, BYU, Indiana, North Carolina, Xavier, Ohio State, Michigan State, Auburn, Notre Dame, Georgetown, Kentucky, Louisville, Kansas and Texas.

15.@IndianaEliteIE pic.twitter.com/aZWlgzXMql
— Anthony Thompson (@ant_thompson26) April 25, 2025

Thompson is preparing to play with Indiana Elite over the summer. He's already shined this month, averaging 24 points and 10 rebounds in two games with Indiana Elite on April 12.

The talented forward brings great size and versatility to the court. He possesses the ability to score on multiple levels, can finish through contact and is able to stretch defenses with his three-point shot. Thompson has also proven to be an effective rebounder.

Currently, Purdue has just one commitment in the 2026 class: Luke Ertel, a 6-foot-1 point guard out of Mount Vernon, Ind. But with the Boilermakers losing Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, Trey Kaufman-Renn and transfers Oscar Cluff and Liam Murphy to eligibility after the 2025-26 season, coach Matt Painter and his staff could potentially sign a sizable class.

Obviously, Thompson would be a great addition for the Boilers.

With 15 schools still in the mix, there's probably still some time before Thompson makes a final decision. But Purdue has to feel good about still being in the mix right now.