Top Georgia Tech Recruit Reopens Recruitment After Coach Firing

Moustapha Diop, a 4-star center, has been released from his commitment to Georgia Tech following the firing of head coach Damon Stoudamire.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 9:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Georgia Tech's top-ranked recruit in the 2026 class, 6'10" center Moustapha Diop, has been granted a release from his National Letter of Intent and has reopened his recruitment. Diop was the No. 113 overall player and No. 14 center in the 2026 class according to the 247Sports Composite. His decision comes after Georgia Tech fired head coach Damon Stoudamire on Sunday.

Why it matters

Diop's decommitment is the first player defection for Georgia Tech following Stoudamire's dismissal. It raises questions about the future of the Yellow Jackets' 2026 recruiting class and whether other top recruits may also seek releases as the program transitions to a new head coach.

The details

Diop, who played at Overtime Elite in Atlanta, was considered a key part of Georgia Tech's 2026 recruiting class. The 6'10" center was known for his shot-blocking ability and athleticism, though his offensive game was still a work in progress. With Diop's departure, the Yellow Jackets now have two other 4-star recruits remaining in the class - forward Jalan Wingfield and guard Kaiden Bailey.

  • Georgia Tech fired head coach Damon Stoudamire on Sunday, March 13, 2026.
  • Moustapha Diop was granted his release and reopened his recruitment on March 13, 2026.

The players

Moustapha Diop

A 6'10" center and the top-ranked recruit in Georgia Tech's 2026 recruiting class, ranked No. 113 overall and No. 14 at his position in the 247Sports Composite.

Damon Stoudamire

The former head coach of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, who was fired on March 13, 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“NEWS: 4⭐️ Moustapha Diop has received his release from Georgia Tech and will reopen his recruitment, source told @Rivals.”

— Joe Tipton, Reporter (Rivals)

What’s next

Georgia Tech will now need to find a new head coach, which could impact the decisions of other recruits in their 2026 class. It remains to be seen if any other players will seek releases in the wake of Stoudamire's firing.

The takeaway

Diop's decommitment is an early setback for Georgia Tech as they transition to a new head coach. The Yellow Jackets will need to quickly stabilize their 2026 recruiting class to avoid further defections and rebuild momentum on the recruiting trail.