Breaking: Kentucky, Mark Pope land commitment from high-upside wing Braydon Hawthorne
Kentucky’s basketball resurgence under head coach Mark Pope continues to gain momentum as the Wildcats secured a commitment from high-upside wing Braydon Hawthorne. The athletic and versatile forward pledged to the Wildcats this week, adding another dynamic piece to what is shaping up to be an exciting new era in Lexington.
Hawthorne, a 6-foot-7 prospect known for his length, explosiveness, and developing offensive skill set, had drawn interest from several major programs. However, after careful consideration and discussions with Pope and the Kentucky staff, he made the decision to don the blue and white.
“I just felt like it was the perfect fit for my game and my growth,” Hawthorne said in a statement. “Coach Pope has a vision for this team, and I believe I can thrive in his system. Kentucky is a place where I can push myself and compete at the highest level.”
The commitment is a significant early recruiting win for Pope, who took over the program this offseason following the departure of John Calipari. While Calipari built Kentucky into a blue-blood powerhouse known for one-and-done stars, Pope’s approach seems focused on building balanced, cohesive teams that blend elite talent with long-term development.
Hawthorne fits that mold perfectly. While still raw in some areas, he brings tremendous potential. His length allows him to guard multiple positions, and his energy on both ends of the floor stands out in every game he plays. Scouts have praised his instincts on defense and his ability to finish in transition. Though his perimeter shooting is still a work in progress, his improved mechanics and work ethic have impressed evaluators throughout the past year.
“Braydon’s upside is enormous,” one national recruiting analyst noted. “He’s the kind of player who may not be a household name right now, but in two years, he could be one of the breakout stars in college basketball. Mark Pope and his staff saw that potential early.”
With Hawthorne’s commitment, Kentucky adds depth to its wing position and gains a player who could contribute immediately while also developing into a long-term anchor. He’s expected to bring versatility to both ends of the court—whether it’s defending the opposition’s best scorer or cutting to the rim for an explosive finish.
The Wildcats have been steadily rebuilding their roster under Pope, targeting players who not only bring talent but also fit the culture and style he’s trying to implement. Hawthorne’s decision to join the program is a testament to that vision and could serve as a recruiting domino for others in the 2025 class.
For Kentucky fans eager to see what the future holds, this commitment is another encouraging sign. Pope’s first full recruiting cycle is just beginning, but landing a high-ceiling prospect like Braydon Hawthorne shows that the Wildcats remain a top destination for elite talent—and that the program’s winning tradition is in steady hands moving forward.
