When summer practice started in Lexington, all eyes were on the big-name transfers and returning stars. Otega Oweh, Kerr Kriisa, and Koby Brea were expected to shine — and they have. But according to multiple insiders close to the program, there’s one Wildcat making major waves behind the scenes… and nobody saw it coming.
His name? Braydon Hawthorne.
The 6-foot-8 forward from Beckley, West Virginia, arrived in Lexington with little fanfare. Many fans weren’t even sure where he’d fit in a stacked frontcourt loaded with experience and size. But now? Coaches are raving. Teammates are taking notice. And some are even whispering the word “X-Factor.”
> “Braydon’s been one of the most locked-in guys all summer,” one source inside the program told us. “He’s defending, hitting shots, and showing a motor that’s just non-stop. He’s playing like someone with something to prove — and he’s proving it.”
While names like Reece Potter and Amari Williams were expected to control the paint, Hawthorne has reportedly impressed with his versatility. He’s guarding multiple positions, running the floor, and knocking down shots with a confidence that’s catching the entire staff by surprise.
> “Every team that makes a deep run has that one guy who wasn’t a preseason headline but turns into a postseason hero,” said a former UK player who’s been watching practices. “Braydon might be that guy.”
With Mark Pope emphasizing effort, defense, and floor spacing this summer, a player like Hawthorne fits perfectly into the system. His ability to stretch the floor at 6’8” and defend on the perimeter gives Kentucky flexibility they desperately need — especially in late-game matchups.
So while Kentucky fans may have come into the summer focused on the stars, they may leave the offseason with a new favorite name circled: Braydon Hawthorne.
Because if practice is any indication, he won’t just be filling a roster spot — he could be the difference-maker when it matters most.
