In a move that has electrified the college basketball world, Braydon Hawthorne—a 6-foot-8 wing from Beckley, West Virginia—has officially committed to the University of Kentucky, marking a significant addition to the Wildcats’ 2025 recruiting class.
Hawthorne, a consensus four-star prospect, is ranked No. 33 nationally by 247Sports. He showcased his elite scoring ability during his senior year at Huntington Expression Prep, averaging 23.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His accolades include being a McDonald’s All-American nominee and MVP at the Dr. Pepper Classic.
A lifelong Kentucky fan, Hawthorne’s commitment fulfills a childhood dream. He shared a nostalgic photo on social media of himself as a child beside the Joe B. Hall statue, captioned, “When childhood dreams become REALITY.”
Head coach Mark Pope praised Hawthorne’s rapid development and strong work ethic, stating, “He is a great learner, a 4.0 student and highly skilled. His ceiling is incredible, and he really wants to be here at Kentucky.”
Hawthorne joins fellow high school commits Jasper Johnson, Malachi Moreno, and Andrija Jelavić in Kentucky’s 2025 class. With this addition, the Wildcats’ recruiting class is bolstered, enhancing their prospects for the upcoming season.
As the Wildcats prepare for the 2025-26 season, Hawthorne’s arrival is anticipated to make a significant impact, both on and off the court, as he brings his scoring prowess and passion for the program to Lexington.
