BYU continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, landing another five-star prospect with the commitment of highly touted wing Bruce Branch III. The top-10 blue-chip gives the Cougars one of the best classes in the 2026 cycle.
Branch brings size, length and versatility that immediately stand out for a player on the wing. The 6-foot-7 prospect possesses a 7-foot-1 wingspan and a skill set that allows him to impact the game in multiple ways on the offensive end.
He has the ability to score from all three levels, showing comfort shooting off the catch while also attacking defenders off the dribble. Branch frequently punishes closeouts, using his quick first step to get into the lane where he can either rise for a midrange pull-up or finish at the rim.
“I wanted to go to a place that felt like a family, had great academics, and was really focused on basketball,” Branch told ESPN. “I can see myself leading this team to a championship. It just felt right.”
As he continues to develop physically and learns how to better leverage his frame against smaller defenders, scouts believe Branch could grow into a more consistent secondary ball handler in the Cougars’ system.
Defensively, his upside is just as outstanding. With his length, quickness and willingness to stay in front of the ball, Branch projects as a disruptive perimeter defender capable of guarding multiple positions.
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Branch becomes the third addition tied to BYU’s incoming group. Former G League center Abdullah Ahmed moved up to join this year’s roster, while junior college transfer KJ Perry enrolled early and is redshirting this season.
The Cougars’ 2026 class also includes ESPN SC Next 100 forward Dean Rueckert and in-state center Will Openshaw, giving BYU a strong foundation moving forward.
