Ole Miss lands visit from five-star DME Academy shooting-guard Ryan Hampton

OXFORD, Miss. — Ryan Hampton, a 6-foot-6 shooting guard from Daytona Beach, Florida, has scheduled an official visit to Ole Miss next week. He’ll also visit with other programs such as NC State, SMU, and Nebraska. Hampton is currently the third-ranked prospect in the 2027 class. This would be a great addition for head coach Chris Beard and the Rebels, as he would become the highest-rated signee in program history.

Skill and Potential

Hampton has spent the last two seasons as a shooting guard for DME Academy. However, he had a breakout performance during Peach Jam. He averaged 26.8 points, as well as shooting 61.4 percent from the field and 54.5 percent from three for the week. Hampton was also very good at fighting for rebounds during the week-long event. While he still needs work with his footing and staying balanced when attacking the rim, this was an impressive showing for the young guard.

What makes Hampton interesting? His size. Hi, being a 6-foot-6, 190-pound wing has caught the attention of many. He poses a threat, not only with his driving but also with his beautiful jumpshot. He is prime with all the potential in the world.

Family Ties

The last name Hampton might be familiar to you. His father, Roderick Hampton, played D1 ball at SMU from 1987 through 1991. He recorded 470 points, 419 assists, 285 rebounds, 127 steals, and 15 blocks throughout his time at SMU.

Ryan is also the younger brother of former NBA player RJ Hampton who was a first-round pick in the 2020 draft; the Milwaukee Bucks drafted him at 24 that year. He spent four seasons playing for multiple teams before becoming a free agent and heading overseas to play for Changsha Yongsheng in China this season.

While basketball ties surround the younger Hampton, he quite possibly could be the biggest basketball star to come from his family tree.

What does this do for Ole Miss?

The Ole Miss men’s basketball team has not had a strong season. The Rebels are currently 11-16, 3-11 in the SEC, and the team has lost nine in a row this season. Last year’s team marched all the way to the Sweet 16, which was the first time for the Rebels to do so since 2001. Coach Beard and the rest of his staff now must look ahead for what is next for the program.

Hampton is a dynamic, next-level player who can lead a team. Ole Miss’ biggest issue this season has been finding a consistent leader. Hampton, with his dynamic size, ability to score and shoot, and willingness to grab rebounds, could be a game-changer for the Rebels; a commitment from him would be huge for the team’s future.