January 28th Commitment Spotlight: 2026 Top-20 Recruit Qayden Samuels
The recruiting world turns its attention to one of the final marquee decisions in the Class of 2026: top-20 wing Qayden Samuels. The Bishop McNamara (MD) standout is set to announce his college choice on Wednesday, January 28th, with his recruitment narrowed to Alabama and Georgetown.
What Makes Samuels Special: Game Breakdown
Samuels has emerged as one of the most prolific scorers in his class and a matchup problem for defenders at all levels:
Scoring & Shooting
A left-handed scoring wing, Samuels is known for his ability to put up points in a variety of ways, from pull-ups, catch-and-shoot threes, floaters, and attacking the rim.
He’s shown the ability to shoot 38%+ from deep off the dribble and excel when coming off screens in elite circuits (98th percentile in EYBL PPP).
Over the summer circuit with Team Takeover, he posted big scoring lines and showed a willingness to chase offense.
Physical Tools
Listed around 6-5 with an extended wingspan (~6-11), Samuels combines strength and size.
He’s capable on the boards and mobile enough to defend multiple positions.
Playmaking & Defense
Samuels can use his handle to create for himself and pressure the rim, though his assist numbers suggest room to grow as a secondary playmaker.
While labeled a scorer first, Samuels also takes pride in his defensive effort and matchup versatility.
Overall: Samuels is a “go-to” wing with shooting gravity, off-ball scoring instincts, and enough ball skills to thrive in modern college schemes. His consistency and decision-making will be key development areas at the next level.
Alabama: High-Pace Scoring Wing Fit
Offensive System
At Alabama under Nate Oats, Samuels would step into a pace-and-space, up-tempo offense that thrives on quick reads, ball movement, and wing scoring opportunities. Oats’ system is designed to get shots early and often on the break, with wings playing a premium role. This style could allow Samuels to maximize his shot-creation and catch-shoot opportunities.
Roster Context
While Alabama traditionally spreads the floor and looks for 3-level scorers, Samuels would likely compete immediately for minutes alongside experienced guards and forwards. Given Alabama’s momentum in his recruitment and previous crystal ball leanings toward the Tide, the fit appears strong.
Projection
Alabama’s system could unlock Samuels’ scoring instincts by giving him freedom in transition and on ball-screen reads. Expect him to be a go-to wing as a freshman if he lands here, particularly as a perimeter threat and versatile scorer.
Georgetown: Leadership & Local Ties
Program Identity
Georgetown, with head coach Ed Cooley, has carved out an identity around toughness, physicality, and disciplined half-court execution. Samuels’ strong ties to the DC-area and personal relationship with the Hoyas coaching staff have been well documented throughout his recruitment.
Opportunity & Role
At Georgetown, Samuels would likely slide into an early leadership role as one of the marquee commits — particularly appealing given the Hoyas’ recent roster turnover and need for high-end scoring wings in the Big East. Being closer to family and playing in front of a passionate local fanbase adds intangible appeal.
Projection
If Samuels chooses Georgetown, it will reflect a fit rooted in coaching trust, role clarity, and proximity — giving him the green light to be a featured scorer from Day 1 in a physical, competitive league.
Prediction: Where Will He Commit?
While his recruitment has been competitive, Alabama appears to have maintained the edge throughout the process. His offensive profile meshes well with Nate Oats’ system.
Prediction: Alabama
Samuels’ skill set as a high-volume, multi-level scorer fits seamlessly into Alabama’s offense, and the allure of competing in the SEC under an up-tempo scheme could tip the scales.
Written by Alex Karamanos | January 27, 2026