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Oklahoma State Lands Coveted 2026 Prospect Out of Big 12 Rival’s Backyard

Originally posted on Heartland College Sports
By Bryan Clinton | Last updated Apr 14, 2025 5:57 PM ET

Mike Gundy and the Oklahoma State Cowboys landed their eighth commitment in the 2026 class on Monday, and in doing so, robbed another Big 12 program of a homegrown talent.

Jabarie Thornton, a three-star wide receiver according to 247Sports, committed to Oklahoma State on Monday, choosing the Pokes over Oregon, Baylor, Arkansas, Houston, Nebraska, and Ole Miss, among others.

Thornton, listed at 5-foot-11, 175 pounds, plays at La Vega High School in Waco, Texas, putting him right in Baylor’s backyard.

We in Stillwater wit it!!!! #commited #AGTG #GoPokes pic.twitter.com/ITX9sOOtHe
— Jabarie Thornton (@J_thorn1on_) April 14, 2025

The Bears did extend an offer to Thornton, but his heart is set on Stillwater after taking several visits during his recruitment.

Thornton hopes to be the next in a long line of impact receivers for Oklahoma State, and has a track record of success that bodes well.

This past season at La Vega, Thornton recorded 76 receptions for 1,367 yards and 15 touchdowns, giving him 1,977 yards and 27 touchdowns over the past two years.

Thornton excels on the track, too, posting a personal best of 22.61 in the 200m and also competes in the long jump and triple jump.

After Thornton’s commitment, Oklahoma State has the No. 33 recruiting class in the cycle and No. 7 class in the Big 12.

This article first appeared on Heartland College Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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