Rising Star on the Radar: 2025 Four-Star Braylon Hawthorne Set for Official Visit to Kentucky After WVU Decommitment — Could He Be the Next Big Blue Addition?
LEXINGTON, KY — The recruiting trail just got a little hotter for the Kentucky Wildcats.
Braylon Hawthorne, a highly-touted four-star small forward in the class of 2025, will be making an official visit to Kentucky tomorrow, just days after announcing his decommitment from West Virginia. The 6-foot-8 forward has quickly become one of the most sought-after uncommitted prospects on the market — and Big Blue Nation is taking notice.
A Shift in Direction After Coaching Change
Hawthorne, originally committed to West Virginia, reopened his recruitment following a major coaching shakeup in Morgantown. Since then, he’s drawn serious interest from multiple high-major programs, but it’s Kentucky, under new head coach Mark Pope, that now holds the spotlight.
Sources close to the situation say Hawthorne has been intrigued by Pope’s vision for a re-energized, positionless style of play — a system that could fully unlock the lanky wing’s versatile skill set.
“He’s long, athletic, and can score at all three levels,” said one recruiting analyst. “Exactly the kind of hybrid forward Coach Pope likes — a guy who can stretch the floor but also put it on the deck.”
What Braylon Hawthorne Brings to the Table
Hawthorne’s upside is undeniable. At 6-8 with a smooth shooting stroke, quick first step, and elite length, he’s a matchup nightmare on the wing. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends makes him a perfect fit for Kentucky’s evolving style under Pope’s leadership.
His recent performances on the AAU circuit have only boosted his stock, with scouts praising his improved footwork, rebounding instincts, and developing playmaking ability.
“He’s not just a scorer — he’s learning how to control the game,” noted a scout from the EYBL circuit. “And in the right system, he’s got serious NBA potential.”
A Crucial Visit for Mark Pope’s Blueprint
As Mark Pope continues to lay the foundation for his Kentucky tenure, adding a high-upside talent like Hawthorne would send a strong message: Kentucky is still one of college basketball’s premier destinations for elite prospects.
Hawthorne’s visit could be the turning point in his recruitment, especially with the Kentucky fanbase, facilities, and history all on full display.
“It’s Kentucky,” one anonymous source said. “Once a kid walks into Rupp and sees that fanbase, things get real.”
Should Pope Add Braylon to the Squad?
Absolutely — and many fans agree. Hawthorne checks every box: length, athleticism, upside, and immediate impact potential. With Kentucky looking to reload and compete at the highest level, securing a commitment from Hawthorne would be both a symbolic and strategic win.
BBN, stay tuned. Tomorrow’s visit could mark the beginning of another key chapter in the Wildcats’ future.
