Braydon Hawthorne Officially Signs with Kentucky, Mark Pope Calls It a “Perfect Fit”
Kentucky basketball’s momentum continues to surge as Braydon Hawthorne has officially signed with the Wildcats. The former Alabama guard brings versatility, energy, and experience to a Kentucky roster that’s quickly shaping into one of the most intriguing in the SEC. Head coach Mark Pope couldn’t be happier.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Braydon to Big Blue Nation,” Pope said in a statement. “He’s a competitor, a leader, and someone who knows how to win. He’s a perfect fit for what we’re building here.”
Hawthorne, a 6’4″ combo guard, played two seasons at Alabama and was known for his defensive intensity and clutch shot-making. While his stats won’t blow you away—he averaged 6.1 points and 3.2 rebounds in limited minutes last season—his impact often went beyond the box score. He’s expected to bring a veteran presence to a team that’s blending returners, transfers, and promising young talent.
Sources close to the program say Pope views Hawthorne as a culture-setter and someone who can thrive in his guard-friendly, fast-paced system. With Kentucky looking to bounce back into national relevance under Pope’s leadership, Hawthorne’s arrival adds needed depth and maturity to the backcourt.
Fans across #BBN took to social media to welcome the newest Wildcat, expressing excitement over the program’s latest pickup.
With Jaland Lowe also joining the team and more additions possibly on the way, Kentucky is building a roster that could make serious noise in the 2025–26 season. For Pope and the Wildcats, Braydon Hawthorne’s signing is another step in the right 
