In the hushed corridors of Rupp Arena, where echoes of legends linger, a new chapter is being etched into Kentucky basketball lore. Braydon Hawthorne, a 6-foot-8 wing with a 7-foot-3 wingspan from Huntington, West Virginia, has committed to the Wildcats, choosing them over programs like Duke, Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech, and West Virginia.
Hawthorne’s journey is one of destiny and determination. A lifelong Kentucky fan, he once stood as a child beside the Joe B. Hall statue, dreaming of donning the blue and white. Now, that dream has materialized.
His commitment is more than a personal milestone; it’s a strategic addition to a roster poised for dominance. Under Coach Mark Pope, the 2025-26 Wildcats are assembling a formidable lineup. Hawthorne joins fellow ESPN 100 recruits Jasper Johnson (No. 18) and Malachi Moreno (No. 25), as well as international prospect Andrija Jelavić. The team also boasts high-impact transfers like Jayden Quaintance from Arizona State and Brandon Garrison from Oklahoma State.
Hawthorne’s versatility and defensive prowess make him more than just a depth piece. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively adds
