Four-star small forward Braydon Hawthorne is set to visit Kentucky this Wednesday, and it’s a visit that could have major implications for Mark Pope’s first full recruiting class at the helm in Lexington. With the Wildcats looking to reload with versatile, high-upside wings, Hawthorne is exactly the type of prospect that could thrive in Pope’s system.
Size/Length:
At 6’7″, Hawthorne has ideal wing size for the college level. He’s long, wiry, and has the frame to guard multiple positions — a valuable asset in today’s switch-heavy defensive schemes.
Athleticism:
Explosive in transition and smooth off the bounce, Hawthorne excels in up-tempo settings. He can finish above the rim with authority and has a quick first step that helps him blow by defenders.
Offensive Game:
Scorer at all three levels, with a particularly smooth mid-range pull-up.
Improving three-point shot— not yet elite from deep, but confident and efficient in catch-and-shoot situations.
– Great slasher who thrives when cutting off-ball or attacking closeouts.
Defensive Tools:
Hawthorne’s length and agility allow him to guard 2-through-4 effectively. He’s a disruptive on-ball defender and anticipates passing lanes well, often turning defense into fast-break opportunities.
Basketball IQ & Intangibles:
A coach’s dream from a culture standpoint — high motor, unselfish, vocal leader. Known for his work ethic and toughness, traits that would mesh well with Pope’s gritty, fast-paced vision for Kentucky.
Pope has already made a strong impression in the 2025 class, and Kentucky’s brand still holds massive weight. But it won’t be easy — Hawthorne is being heavily pursued by programs like Alabama, Baylor, and Arkansas, and he’s hinted at valuing immediate playing time and a defined role.
What could sway him toward Lexington:
Pope’s focus on positionless basketball that allows wings like Hawthorne to thrive.
Early opportunity to contribute on both ends in a retooling roster.
A successful visit that shows him how he’ll be a centerpiece rather than just another name
Braydon Hawthorne isn’t just another four-star — he’s a potential game-changer with the upside of a future NBA wing. If Pope can close on this visit, it would send a loud message that Kentucky’s new era is serious about winning now and developing stars for the next level.
If he commits, this would be one of the signature early recruiting wins of the Pope era. Keep an eye out for post-visit buzz — Kentucky fans should be excited.
