Five-star shooting guard Jason Crowe Jr. is one of the hottest names in high school basketball recruiting, and his decision could change the trajectory of a program overnight. Ranked No. 5 nationally in the Class of 2026 by 247Sports and the No. 2 point guard, Crowe has become a coveted prospect thanks to his elite scoring ability, confidence, and versatility on both ends of the court.
Recently, the 6-foot-3 guard from Inglewood, California, has seen Missouri emerge as the frontrunner, with insiders projecting him to become the Tigers’ highest-ranked commit since Michael Porter Jr. in 2017. Crowe plans to announce his decision on July 18th, and Mizzou fans have every reason to be optimistic.
Confidence That Matches His Game
Crowe’s reputation goes beyond his stats. Known for his three-level scoring ability, deep shooting range, and advanced offensive skillset, he thrives with the ball in his hands and shines against top competition. At Nike EYBL Session 4, playing up an age group, Crowe averaged 18.3 points and 4.0 assists per game, including standout performances of 25 and 27 points against elite teams.
His confidence has been evident since his youth. Asked who stood out most at USA Basketball camp, Crowe simply replied: “Me.”
“If you aren’t confident, you’re not going to play well out here,” he said. “I’m not scared of failure. I’ve failed before, and I’ve learned from it. I believe in my work.”
That confidence shows on the court, where he blends scoring, passing, and defense, and off it, where he stays grounded thanks to his family and mentors—including his father, former pro Jason Crowe Sr., and his godfather, Celtics legend Paul Pierce.
Recruiting Update: Missouri Takes the Lead
For much of his recruitment, Kentucky was seen as the favorite, thanks in large part to the close relationship between the Crowe family and UK assistant Jason Hart. Crowe Jr. even referred to Hart as “like my uncle,” saying, “That’s family right there. Having him there definitely helps me look at Kentucky with a different eye.”
However, Missouri has quietly gained momentum in recent months, earning a Crystal Ball prediction from 247Sports analysts. Head coach Dennis Gates has positioned the Tigers as the team to beat, despite heavy competition from USC, UCLA, Texas, Baylor, Duke, Arkansas, and Alabama.
Crowe’s decision will ultimately come down to fit: play style, coaching staff, facilities, and how each program benefits his development. “I can’t just go somewhere because it’s family,” he said of Kentucky. “I have to be fair to other coaches and find the best fit for me.”
Crowe is expected to take official visits later this summer, with Kentucky and Missouri both in line for trips. He currently plans to announce his commitment in December or January if he doesn’t decide this month.
A New Era for Missouri?
If Missouri lands Crowe, it could mark the start of a new era for Gates and the Tigers. Not only would Crowe be the program’s highest-ranked recruit in nearly a decade, but he would also immediately bring star power, scoring punch, and a winning mentality to Columbia.
Crowe is well aware of the impact he can make at the next level—and he embraces the challenge. “I really think I can do it all,” he said. “Score, pass, defend—whatever coach needs me to do.”
Player Profile: Jason Crowe Jr.
- Class: 2026
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 165 lbs
- Position: Shooting Guard / Point Guard
- Hometown: Inglewood, CA
- High School: Inglewood High School
- National Rank: No. 5 overall (247Sports)
- Position Rank: No. 2 PG (247Sports)
- Notable Offers: Missouri, Kentucky, Duke, USC, UCLA, Texas, Baylor, Arkansas, Alabama
