The Future of Basketball: Baba Oladotun

It’s pretty hard to miss 6-foot-9 Baba Oladotun walking the halls at Blake. A towering figure both physically and in reputation, Oladotun has already made a national name for himself. Oladotun, the #1 ESPN college basketball prospect for the Class of ‘27, has already received 27 offers, including from national powerhouses Kentucky, UCLA, and Michigan. It’s clear: Baba Oladotun is on a fast track to basketball greatness.

A Student of the Game

One of the players Oladotun admires most is LeBron James. He explained that LeBron’s “IQ” and his ability to be “an all-around player” set him apart. When asked who he would want to share the court with one day, Oladotun didn’t hesitate: “The Lakers, either LeBron, KD, or Stephen Curry.” 

Though he’s already under the spotlight, Oladotun is focused on staying grounded. In order to channel the energy at the games and manage so many eyes on him, his key is to “stay humble.” 

The Grind

Balancing school and elite-level basketball is no easy task, but Oladotun makes it work. “Gotta be disciplined,” he says. That discipline is supported by a half-day schedule and summer classes, which help him stay on track for graduation while leaving him ample time to train. 

Every day, Oladotun puts in the work, practicing “three to four hours,” plus time at “the gym or the library.” In the offseason, Oladotun dedicates more time to basketball and “spend[s] more time at the gym.” His biggest strength on the court is his “shooting,” a skill that’s helped him stand out among top recruits. He’s also quick to point out where there’s room to grow, identifying his “rebounding and interior defense” as areas he’s actively working to improve. 

More Than Basketball

Off the court, Oladotun keeps things balanced with other interests. When asked what he enjoys doing outside of basketball, he says simply, “I play the piano.” He also revealed that two of his most famous contacts are none other than “Carmelo [Anthony] and Kevin Durant.” And when it comes to the age-old basketball debate—Who’s the greatest of all time?—his answer is instant: “LeBron, he’s my favorite player.”

Baba Oladotun is more than just a top recruit—he’s a rare combination of talent, discipline, and focus. With a focus on his goals and a grounded approach to success, he’s not just preparing for college basketball—he’s laying the foundation for a future at the highest level of the game. Whether it’s his shooting, dedication in the gym, or time spent learning off the court, he’s chasing greatness.