Amidst wave upon endless wave of overblown, negative recruiting news after Kentucky landed two high-ceiling targets, the Wildcats have finally caught a lucky break in the form of a piece of hopeful talent sticking around. Redshirt freshman Braydon Hawthorne has officially announced his return to Kentucky, per his own Instagram.
On the final day of transfer portal entries and exits, Hawthorne made his decision to return to Lexington – in much-needed fashion – official. But, in a sudden and surprising turn of events, Hawthorne wasn’t the only player to pledge to Kentucky today. In fact, he wasn’t the only Hawthorne.
Announced barely an hour after Braydon’s post, Zyon Hawthorne, was made official as an addition to the 2026-27 roster himself (per UK Sports Network). You can say what you want about the perceived impact of either of these players, but returning one capable wing, and then adding a depth guard in the same fell swoop, is a win.
Zyon Makes Two Hawthornes in Lexington
Braydon, of course, is seemingly set to play a serious role on next year’s roster. His redshirt campaign did little to hide the promise of a six-foot-nine (and growing) frame on the wing. Assuming his pre-college scoring abilities are still in-tact – that of a player who can “get his” both from downtown and going downhill – the older Hawthorne should be able to plug in to Mark Pope’s offense as he’s been expected to all along…