BREAKING: Aziz Olajuwon, the highly sought-after son of NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, has officially committed to Stanford University, according to an announcement made to ESPN earlier today. This significant decision solidifies Stanford’s position in the competitive college basketball landscape and marks an urgent milestone for the program under head coach Kyle Smith.
The 6-foot-7 small forward, ranked No. 40 in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2026, prioritized his personal growth in his choice. “I chose Stanford because the coaching staff made it clear they are about me not just as an athlete, but as a person,” Olajuwon stated, emphasizing the importance of the coaching connection.
In a recent recruitment journey, Olajuwon narrowed his options to four schools: Stanford, Cincinnati, Vanderbilt, and Houston, his father’s alma mater. He visited both Cincinnati and Vanderbilt in the past weeks, but the allure of Stanford proved too strong. “The visit felt like a real day in the life, not just a tour,” he noted, reflecting on his immersive experience at Stanford.
This commitment is particularly significant as Olajuwon becomes the first ESPN 100 recruit for Stanford since Smith took over in March 2024. His decision signals a promising future for the Stanford program, which is eager to build a strong recruiting class. Olajuwon praised the coaching staff for their investment in players both on and off the court, stating, “Their passion, leadership, and ability to connect with the teams made a huge impression on me.”
Olajuwon recently transferred to IMG Academy in Florida, where he showcased his skills on the Nike EYBL circuit, averaging 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists over 19 games this past spring and summer. His performance peaked at the Nike Peach Jam in July, where he shot nearly 42% from behind the arc, including a standout game with six three-pointers and a total of 25 points.
Known for his triple-threat stance, Olajuwon has emerged as one of the most improved players of the summer, demonstrating his versatility in reading defenses as well as scoring, passing, and driving. His length and agility allow him to effectively defend both the wing and the ball, adding to his appeal as a recruit.
Aziz Olajuwon joins four-star guard Isaiah Rogers as the second commitment in Stanford’s 2026 class. As the college basketball season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Olajuwon’s commitment influences Stanford’s performance and recruitment strategies moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
