photo: Deron Rippey Jr., by @shotbydenny
Fort Greene is making waves again in the basketball world, thanks to one of its own.
Deron Rippey Jr., Brooklyn-born and currently considered the nation’s most coveted point guard, will publicly announce his college commitment at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. The event will be hosted at the Major R. Owens Center in Brooklyn, with doors opening to the public at 3:00 p.m.
From Fort Greene to the National Spotlight
Now living in Fort Greene but playing out of Blair Academy in New Jersey, Rippey Jr. represents both his neighborhood and one of the premier basketball programs on the East Coast.
A 6’1 guard in the Class of 2026, Rippey has quickly become a household name among recruiters, earning praise for his composure, quickness, and playmaking as a leader and scorer.
Five Schools Remain: Duke, Texas, Miami, Tennessee, NC State
The chase to land Rippey Jr. has been fierce. Over 30 Division I programs have offered him scholarships, including traditional powers like Kentucky, North Carolina, St. John’s, Louisville, Syracuse, and Alabama.
According to his father, his list is now down to:
- Duke
- NC State
- Miami
- Texas
- Tennessee
His choice will be significant for all five programs and will mark another important milestone for Brooklyn basketball.
Commitment Event Information
Details for those interested in attending:
Announcement: Tuesday, 12/30/25
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Doors Open: 3:00 p.m.
Location: Major R. Owens Center
Address: 1561 Bedford Ave.
Facility: New Heights Gym
Fort Greene’s Basketball Spirit Grows
This announcement comes while Fort Greene celebrates another major moment. NBA veteran Taj Gibson and Alloy Development recently revealed new plans for the former Navy Yard Boys & Girls Club, reinforcing the area’s deep connections to basketball.
As Gibson, a neighborhood legend, moves forward on a new project, Rippey Jr. is gearing up for his turn in the national spotlight.
Ultimately, Rippey Jr.’s decision is another example of Brooklyn’s tradition of nurturing elite talent, and fans are eagerly watching to see which college gets the borough’s next great guard.
