4-star 2026 Class SF Jaxon Richardson names Alabama, Cincinnati, Georgia among his top commitment choices

Four-star Columbus small forward Jaxon Richardson recently announced his top college commitment choices. According to Sports Illustrated, the No. 27-ranked class of 2026 prospect has named the University of Alabama, Cincinnati, USC, Georgia, and the University of Michigan as his top choices. Speaking on Friday with Sports Illustrated, Jaxon stated clearly saying:

"The schools that are standing out to me right now are Alabama, Cincinnati, Georgia, Michigan, and USC but it is very early in the recruitment process to say any leaders at the moment."

The four-star prospect has also gotten offers from 14 college programs, including other top programs like Oklahoma State, Louisville, Arizona State and UNLV, among others. According to On3's prediction data, Alabama is currently leading the race to secure Jaxon's commitment with a 38.9% chance, while Michigan University follows closely with a 34.1% chance.

Speaking to Sports Illustrated, the 6-foot-6 small forward had this to say about Alabama:

"I fell in love with the campus and the coaches were great to me and my family."

Although Alabama seems to be the favorite in securing Richardson's commitment at the moment, his special connection to the University of Michigan can definitely not be dismissed.

Jaxon's father, Jason Richardson, who is an ex-NBA star, is not only an alumnus of Michigan State, but he, in fact, helped the team to an NCAA Championship in 2000.

Jaxon's brother, Jase Richardson, also currently attends Michigan State and has begun to feature with the Wolverines since his debut last month. The brothers already played alongside each other during Jase's final high school years at Columbus. The dream of reuniting again at the college level will definitely be something they're considering.

Speaking with Sports Illustrated, Jaxon also had this to say about Michigan:

"Love the way they play and have a very well-coached program… I feel like it could be a place where I'd make an impact right away as well as helping this team bring home a championship."

Being a Class of 2026 prospect, Jaxon is quite spoilt for choice regarding which college commitment to make. However, given the current level of his performance, his options are only going to increase. As a class of 2026 prospect, one thing he definitely has on his side is time.

Four-star Prospect, Jaxon Richardson Shines at The City of Palms Classic

Richardson has been the heart of Columbus' remarkable run at the prestigious City of Palms Classic. Amid other remarkable talents in the Columbus team, the four-star junior has stood out, dishing out back-to-back impressive performances to lead his team to the City of Palms Classic title game on Monday night.

Along the way to this title showdown, the Explorers have secured wins over top-tier opponents, including IMG Academy and Grayson (Ga.), and Richardson has played a crucial role in every one of these victories. In the 85–54 victory over Grayson, he contributed an impressive 17 points, three rebounds, and three assists.

Also, in Saturday's thrilling 77–71 win over IMG Academy, he delivered 23 points to earn the Player of the Game honor. He currently averages 18.6 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals as he heads into the title decider game against Montverde Academy. The Wanderers will be hoping that he can keep up his impressive display to help them bring home the title.