A Decision That Echoes Across the Court
Eve Long, a 6‑foot‑3 forward and the No. 5‑ranked prospect in the Class of 2027, announced verbally that she will play for Notre Dame, passing up offers from UConn and UCLA. The commitment marks a significant win for the Irish, who have been eager to bolster their roster with elite talent.
Long’s high school career at Olathe South in Kansas has been nothing short of spectacular. She led her team to a 20‑5 record while averaging 32.7 points, 9.8 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game, earning the 2026 MaxPreps Kansas Player of the Year and the 2026 Gatorade Kansas Player of the Year honors.
The recruit’s accolades extend beyond the high school hardwood. She was named to the Naismith Trophy Girls High School Player of the Year Midseason Team as a junior and helped Team USA capture the 2025 FIBA Under‑16 AmeriCup in Mexico, where she received All‑Star Five recognition. This summer she is slated to attend trials for the U17 National Team in Colorado.
Recruiting Ripple Effects
While Long’s decision is a clear victory for Notre Dame, UConn remains in the hunt for other top 2027 prospects, including Kaleena Smith, Ivanna Wilson‑Manyacka and Hayden Ayers. The competition underscores the depth of talent still available and the strategic importance of each recruit for the programs’ future.
Analysts predict that Long’s arrival could revitalize the Irish’s offensive schemes, offering a versatile scoring option and a defensive presence that could push the team deeper into the NCAA tournament. Coaches at Notre Dame have already begun weaving her into plans for next season’s lineup, emphasizing both her shooting range and rebounding ability.
The commitment also highlights the growing global reach of U.S. basketball talent. Long’s international experience with Team USA, including a gold medal at the 2025 FIBA Under‑16 AmeriCup, reflects a pipeline that stretches from high school gyms in Kansas to the world stage, and her next steps will be closely watched by scouts and fans alike.