Jalen Montonati, a rising star in the 2026 basketball recruiting class, is making waves with his impressive performances and thoughtful approach to his college decision. The 6-foot-7 small forward from Owasso High School in Oklahoma has garnered attention from top programs nationwide, including Kansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Kansas State. As he navigates his recruitment journey, Montonati is focusing on finding a program that aligns with his values and aspirations.
A Stellar Sophomore Season
Montonati’s sophomore year at Owasso High was nothing short of remarkable. He led his team to their first OSSAA State Championship, scoring 34 points in the title game. His season averages of 23.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game earned him the Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year award . His shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, has been a standout aspect of his game.
Kansas: A Historic Program
Montonati has visited Kansas multiple times and holds the program in high regard. He appreciates the culture and the opportunity to observe Coach Bill Self’s leadership firsthand. “The culture there is unbelievable. Coach Self is one of the greatest college coaches of all time,” Montonati said . The atmosphere at Allen Fieldhouse and the team’s preparation and recovery processes have left a lasting impression on him.
Oklahoma State: A Family Legacy
Oklahoma State holds a special place in Montonati’s heart, as his father, Brian Montonati, played for the Cowboys under Coach Eddie Sutton. Jalen has been attending games at Gallagher-Iba Arena since childhood and values the familial atmosphere of the program. “Being around everyone there, it’s like a big family,” he noted . The re-offer from the new coaching staff and ongoing communication have strengthened his connection to the school.
Oklahoma: Close to Home
Proximity to home is a significant factor for Montonati, and the University of Oklahoma offers just that. He has built a strong relationship with Coach Porter Moser and appreciates the program’s support since his freshman year. “They’ve been extremely supportive of me since the start,” Montonati shared . The opportunity to contribute to a program close to home is appealing to him.
Kansas State: Building Relationships
While Montonati has yet to visit Kansas State, he has been in consistent contact with the coaching staff. He is looking forward to learning more about the program and establishing a deeper connection. “I’ve built a really good relationship with Coach Tang and Coach Terry over there,” he mentioned . A visit to Manhattan is on his agenda to further explore what the Wildcats have to offer.
Key Factors in Decision-Making
Montonati is deliberate in his approach to choosing a college, emphasizing the importance of culture and environment.“I’m looking for a good culture. I don’t want to go into a toxic environment,” he stated . He seeks a family atmosphere where he can contribute immediately and help the team succeed. His ultimate goal is to reach the NBA, but he values the college experience and aims to compete for a national championship.
Upcoming Visits and Considerations
Montonati plans to take additional unofficial visits in the fall, including to Kansas State and other Midwest schools . He is also hearing from programs like Baylor, Kentucky, UConn, Creighton, Duke, and Villanova, indicating a broad interest from top-tier schools. His performance on the Nike EYBL circuit and with Team USA has only heightened his profile among recruiters.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Montonati continues to excel on the court and thoughtfully consider his college options, it’s clear that he is poised for a successful future in basketball. His combination of talent, work ethic, and maturity sets him apart as a top prospect in the 2026 class. Whichever program he chooses will gain a dedicated and skilled player ready to make an immediate impact.