ESPN: unbelievable Nasir RankinG has just been committed to RGV basketball..
ESPN: Unbelievable – Nasir Rankin Commits to RGV Basketball
In a surprising and monumental move that has stunned the college basketball world, ESPN has reported that five-star guard Nasir Rankin has officially committed to Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Basketball. The announcement came late Friday evening via Rankin’s social media accounts, immediately sending shockwaves through the recruiting landscape and igniting excitement across the RGV campus and beyond.
Rankin, widely considered one of the top prospects in the country, was heavily recruited by blue-blood programs including Duke, Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA. Instead, the electrifying 6’4″ combo guard chose a path rarely traveled by elite recruits—signing with a mid-major program that, until now, had never landed a player of his caliber.
Who Is Nasir Rankin?
Nasir Rankin is not just a name; he’s a brand in the making. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Rankin made headlines throughout his high school career with his explosive scoring ability, elite court vision, and lockdown perimeter defense. He averaged 28.6 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game during his senior year at Whitney Young High School, leading his team to the state championship and earning Illinois Mr. Basketball honors.
Rankin has been described by scouts as “a fearless competitor with NBA-ready athleticism and leadership skills beyond his years.” ESPN had him ranked No. 3 overall in the Class of 2025, and his highlight reels have gone viral multiple times for jaw-dropping dunks, no-look passes, and clutch three-pointers.
Why RGV?
The decision to choose RGV has left many analysts scrambling for explanations. What could persuade a top-3 national recruit to forgo powerhouse programs and pick a school outside the traditional NCAA spotlight?
According to Rankin, the answer is both simple and profound: legacy.
“I wanted to build something,” he said in an exclusive interview with ESPN. “Everyone goes where it’s already built. I want to go where I can make history. RGV believed in me from day one. They didn’t treat me like a tool for banners—they treated me like family. I’m ready to shock the world.”
RGV head coach Anthony Delgado deserves credit for this coup. Known for his energetic coaching style and ability to develop guards, Delgado has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to elevate the RGV program. Over the last two seasons, he’s led the team to back-to-back winning records and a postseason berth in the NIT. Landing Rankin could be the moment that launches the program into national relevance.
“We’re not just grateful. We’re ready,” said Delgado. “Nasir is a once-in-a-generation talent and an even better human being. He’s going to inspire kids all over South Texas and beyond to dream bigger.”
The Impact on College Basketball
Rankin’s decision has broader implications for the college basketball ecosystem. In an era where NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals are reshaping recruiting priorities, players now have the freedom to value fit, community, and vision over television exposure or national pedigree. Insiders suggest that Rankin has already secured multiple local NIL endorsements tied to the Rio Grande Valley region, providing both financial security and a strong connection to the community he’ll represent.
This is a wake-up call to the traditional elite programs. With the right support and vision, even mid-major schools can now compete for top-tier talent.
Former NBA player and current ESPN analyst Jalen Rose had this to say on the commitment: “This is LeBron going to Cleveland vibes. He’s taking the harder road, and that tells you everything you need to know about Nasir Rankin. He’s not afraid of the challenge—he’s embracing it.”
What’s Next for RGV?
RGV fans now have something to rally around. The 2025-26 season is already shaping up to be the most anticipated in program history. Season ticket sales spiked by 400% in the hours following Rankin’s announcement, and social media engagement for the team has exploded.
Rankin is expected to slot in as the starting point guard from day one, and his presence could attract other high-level recruits or transfers looking to be part of something historic. Delgado and his staff are already rumored to be in discussions with two more four-star prospects.
“This is not a one-time splash,” said assistant coach Leo Martinez. “This is the new standard.”
Nasir Rankin’s Legacy Begins
At just 18 years old, Nasir Rankin has made a decision that transcends basketball. He’s opted to chase greatness on his own terms, to write his own story instead of living out someone else’s.
It’s a bold move. A risky one. But that’s exactly what makes it unbelievable—and exactly why the entire sports world will be watching.
Come tip-off next season, all eyes will be on the Rio Grande Valley. And thanks to Nasir Rankin, the lights will be shining a little brighter.
