ESPN 100 Wing Hawthorne Chooses Kentucky: What This Exciting Commitment Means for the Wildcats!

Braydon Hawthorne, a standout player in the senior class, recently chose to commit to Kentucky. Just a few months ago, he was committed to West Virginia, but that changed when their coach left for Indiana. After that, he reopened his recruitment and visited several schools, including Duke and Virginia Tech.

Mark Pope, Kentucky’s head coach, reached out to Hawthorne right when he became available. “When I decommitted, Coach Pope was the first to call me. That meant a lot,” Hawthorne shared. He emphasized his great relationship with the coaching staff and noted that he had always been a fan of Kentucky. This opportunity is huge for him.

Initially, Hawthorne considered other schools like Old Dominion and Ohio University. However, after an impressive senior year at Huntington Prep in West Virginia, he climbed the rankings to No. 81 in the ESPN 100. At 6-foot-8, his athletic build and developing skills make him a promising prospect. Coaches praise his wingspan—7 feet and 3 inches—and his ability to excel on both offense and defense.

Assistant coach Dustin Woody remarked, “His production is starting to match his potential.” As Hawthorne continues to develop, experts suggest he could have a future in the NBA.

Kentucky’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up nicely, with Hawthorne joining fellow top prospects Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno. With ten new players coming on board, the Wildcats are looking ahead. “They view me as a versatile player who can fit into various roles,” he said, ready to put in the work for his spot on the team.

The shift in Hawthorne’s recruitment highlights a trend in college basketball where players frequently reassess their commitments due to coaching changes. According to a 2022 survey by the NCAA, about 43% of basketball recruits change their commitments at least once during their high school careers. This growing trend emphasizes the importance of trust and relationships between players and coaches, especially in a competitive landscape.

For fans, Hawthorne’s commitment is more than just a recruitment success; it signifies a new era filled with potential for Kentucky basketball. Stay informed on the latest by checking reputable sources like ESPN. They provide ongoing updates and insights into college sports that fans won’t want to miss.

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