From his play with the Meanstreets and now into his sophomore season at Whitney Young, Nasir Rankin has continued to show he is one of the top players in Illinois’ 2026 class. With this has come plenty of interest from division one programs, in addition to a scholarship offer.
The offer for Rankin came back in August from Eastern Illinois. While the in-state school is his only offer, plenty of other programs from around the region are also showing early interest in the 6’1” 2026 guard. Eastern Michigan, Illinois State, Loyola Chicago, Marquette, and Northern Illinois are amongst these programs. Rankin has also visited a few of these schools already with trips to Loyola Chicago, Marquette, and Northern Illinois. As well, he would like to take a visit to Illinois State, saying “they’ve been interested since the fall.”
“Tough downhill two-way guard,” Rankin first said describing his own game. “Score on all three levels and allow my athleticism to help me score at the rim.” There are few 2026 guards in the region that can match his explosiveness, playmaking ability off the dribble, and on ball defensive play making him such an intriguing prospect at the next level.
Not only is Rankin a standout on the basketball court but also on the football field. In just the past few days, he has picked up football offers from both Illinois and Indiana.