The Kentucky Wildcats have officially bolstered their 2025–26 men’s basketball roster with the addition of a highly regarded prospect whom the program just announced.
Head coach Mark Pope spoke enthusiastically about his potential and commitment to growth, praising not only his talent but also his mindset.
“The four-star probably has the steepest trajectory of anybody in the class of 2025,” Pope said in the school’s press release. “He’s a tremendous learner, maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA, and brings a great deal of skill to the table. His ceiling is incredibly high, and more importantly, he’s passionate about being part of the Kentucky program. I love that he’s eager to compete and improve every single day.”
Hailing from Beckley, West Virginia, the 6-foot-8 wing is widely considered a consensus four-star recruit, ranked as high as No. 33 overall by 247Sports. Braydon Hawthorne wrapped up a stellar senior season at Huntington Expression Prep, where he averaged 23.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game—showcasing his well-rounded offensive game and versatility as a perimeter-forward hybrid. Prior to that, he played at Woodrow Wilson High School, where he initially gained attention on the recruiting radar.
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Hawthorne’s résumé is already filled with significant accolades and national recognition. He was a McDonald’s All-American nominee, participated in the Wootten Top 150 camp, and shined as the MVP at the Dr. Pepper Classic. He also made his mark at high-profile events such as the Paul Biancardi Camp, the Grind Session All-Star Game, and the Big Shots Prep Nationals High School All-Star Game—further solidifying his status as one of the top wings in the 2025 class.
With his length, academic discipline, and drive to excel, Hawthorne is expected to be a strong cultural and athletic fit for Kentucky as they look to return to national championship contention under Coach Pope’s new vision.
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