As of Monday, May 19, 2025, the University of Kentucky men’s basketball program is poised to secure a significant commitment from a four-star recruit. Braydon Hawthorne, a 6-foot-8 wing from Huntington Prep in West Virginia, is scheduled to announce his college decision tomorrow, Tuesday, May 20, at 7:00 PM ET (6:00 PM local time in Abuja) .
Hawthorne’s recruitment has been a focal point for several top-tier programs. After decommitting from West Virginia in March, he has since visited Kentucky, Duke, Virginia Tech, and Pittsburgh. His final list includes these schools, with Kentucky among the contenders .
Kentucky’s interest in Hawthorne is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its 2025 recruiting class. The Wildcats have already secured commitments from in-state prospects Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s future success. Johnson, a guard from the Overtime Elite program, and Moreno, a center from Great Crossing High School, are both highly regarded talents in the 2025 class
Hawthorne’s decision is anticipated to have a ripple effect on the recruiting landscape, potentially influencing the commitments of other top prospects. For instance, Caleb Wilson, a five-star forward from Georgia, has included Kentucky in his final list of schools, and his decision may be influenced by Hawthorne’s choice .
The Wildcats’ pursuit of Hawthorne underscores head coach Mark Pope’s commitment to building a competitive and dynamic roster. By targeting versatile players like Hawthorne, Pope aims to enhance Kentucky’s depth and flexibility, ensuring the program remains at the forefront of college basketball.
As fans and analysts await Hawthorne’s announcement, the outcome is sure to have significant implications for Kentucky’s recruiting efforts and its prospects for the upcoming seasons.
