Oregon continues to strengthen its basketball program with the recent commitment of five-star wing Tajh Ariza, who chose the Ducks over rival USC. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 200 pounds, Ariza is now among the highest-rated recruits Oregon has signed in the modern era.
Hailing from Bellflower, California, Ariza is celebrated for his remarkable physical abilities and defensive potential within the 2026 class. This commitment marks a significant addition to head coach Dana Altman’s efforts to rebuild the frontcourt, joining four-star big man Kendre Harrison as part of a recruiting class that currently sits just outside the top ten nationally.
“Oregon is a winning program — Coach Altman has stacked 20+ win seasons every year he’s been there,” Ariza expressed in a conversation with 247Sports’ Eric Bossi. He believes his skills can help the program pursue a deep run in the NCAA tournament, emphasizing the importance of accountability and personal development during his time at Oregon.
The Ducks have made it to the NCAA Tournament 10 of the past 13 years, bolstered by the presence of star point guard Jackson Shelstad and elite big man Nate Bittle. With these key players returning, the Ducks are poised to extend their tournament streak to 11 out of 14 seasons before Ariza steps onto the court.
According to Adam Finkelstein, 247Sports’ Director of Scouting, Ariza is an emerging player known for his impressive two-way skills. With a better than 7-foot wingspan, he has the physical attributes to excel defensively and offensively. He exhibits remarkable speed and leaping ability, alongside a smooth shooting motion from beyond the arc. While he will need to enhance his strength and physicality, his current skill set allows him to compete at a high level already.
With Ariza’s commitment, Oregon’s Class of 2026 is now ranked 12th in the nation by 247Sports, reflecting the program’s dedication to assembling a competitive roster for the future. This recent signing not only demonstrates the Ducks’ appeal but also highlights the potential for continued success in college basketball.