The crown jewel of the 2021 class, the explosive scorer is the first Rivals 5-star to sign with the Aggies since DeAndre Jordan in 2007. Obaseki can play either shooting guard or small forward and has the ability to score from the outside or drive the laine. He was an all-state selection and District 9-6A MVP last season after averaging 12.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists at Allen High School before transferring to Pope John Paul II.

“Manny is a very important signee for our program. Every basketball program in the country would want to be represented by Manny both on and off the floor. He comes from an amazing family that values education and hard work. We are confident in his ability to have an immediate impact on the floor, in large part due to the outstanding basketball programs he is joining us from in-state. His talent and character is undeniable, and we are excited to see him continue to grow under our tutelage.” -- Assistant coach Jamie McNeilly

Another impressive scorer in the backcourt, Taylor will likely team with 2020 signee Hassan Diarra to make up the point guard combination of the future. Taylor averaged 15.7 points, 4.3 assists and 3.3 steals per game last season as a member of the Rivals 150. Taylor picked the Aggies over the likes of Iowa State, Virginia Tech, Baylor and Oklahoma State.

“Wade is a program changer in more ways than one. We are getting a very respectful, strong-willed leader that will bring his very best in every aspect of his daily life. Wade has had the opportunity to develop within a very strong AAU and high school foundation. Wade attacks his academics the same way he attacks his opportunities to improve on the floor. The very best thing about Wade is he loves basketball and we are looking forward to helping him excel at it." -- Assistant coach Devin Johnson

The big man for the 2021 class, Smith is a strong rebounder and a powerful presence in the low post. He was a much-needed late addition to the class after the Aggies had racked up on a number of quality wings over the past two classes.

“We are very excited to have Ashton join our family. His hard work and determination will be a great asset to our program. Ashton’s underdog mentality on the floor can and will translate to the SEC. A very respectful young man, raised on the right things is what we are getting and boy are we happy! Aggie Nation, you are in for a treat because Ashton is going to give everything he has night in and night out in order to be successful. He comes to us from a very strong program that has poured into him in the very best ways. Ashton’s family has made it easy on us because Ashton is one of the most humble, respectful and trustworthy young men you would ever want to meet.” -- Assistant Coach Devin Johnson