Kobe Bryant’s legacy heads to Eugene, not Los Angeles, in a major 2026 recruiting twist
The USC Trojans came up short in their pursuit of one of the most high-profile prospects in the 2026 recruiting class: five-star defensive back Jett Washington, the nephew of the late NBA icon Kobe Bryant. Washington, who starred at Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas, announced his verbal commitment to Oregon on Thursday, choosing the Ducks over USC and Alabama.
Washington, the son of Kobe’s sister Sharia Washington, had long been a coveted name on the recruiting trail. Ranked as the No. 3 safety and No. 18 overall prospect in the nation by 247Sports, he boasts rare measurables — 6-foot-5, 210 pounds — and positional versatility that will make him a defensive asset at the collegiate level. He’s also the reigning MaxPreps Nevada Player of the Year.
USC Trojans Miss Out on Kobe Bryant’s Nephew as Five-Star DB Jett Washington Commits to Oregon
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“I’ve built a great relationship with [Oregon],” Washington told 247Sports. “When you’re there, you feel the energy. Just being around coach Dan Lanning — he’s a defensive head coach and always involved in the defense — you know you’re going to get development.”
USC was among the final three schools in contention, but after Talanoa Ili’s recent commitment, the Trojans strategically shifted focus away from Washington and fellow DB Davon Benjamin. According to 247Sports’ Steve Wiltfong, USC officially “stepped away” from pursuing the pair, prioritizing other prospects as their 2026 class strategy takes shape.
While missing on Washington is a notable blow given his talent and local ties — and his connection to L.A. royalty — the Trojans appear to be betting on long-term development and possible mid-season flips.
For Oregon, it’s a recruiting triumph. Washington marks the Ducks’ first five-star commit in the 2026 cycle and their ninth pledge overall, bumping them to No. 7 nationally and No. 3 in the Big Ten recruiting rankings.
In the end, Oregon didn’t just land a top-tier prospect — they claimed a piece of Los Angeles legacy in the process.