Mark Pope hasn’t wasted any time proving that his recruiting philosophy is built on balance. The new Kentucky head coach is working tirelessly to secure elite talent for the next couple of seasons, but he’s also making sure the program has a long-term pipeline that stretches well into the future. While the immediate focus is on highly anticipated visits from 2026 prospects like Anthony Thompson, Arafan Diane, and others this September, Pope and his staff are already keeping one eye on the horizon—specifically the class of 2028.
And at the top of that list? Louisville native Josh Lindsay, a name Big Blue Nation may be hearing about a lot in the coming years.
Who is Josh Lindsay?
Lindsay is a 6-foot, 180-pound point guard out of Louisville, Kentucky, and despite still being years away from stepping foot on a college court, he’s already established himself as one of the top young players in the country. Rivals currently has him ranked as high as No. 16 nationally in the 2028 class, a lofty position that puts him firmly on the radar of blue-blood programs.
For Kentucky, in-state stars have always carried an extra layer of importance. When a player like Lindsay emerges, the Wildcats don’t just see a talented prospect—they see someone who could grow into the face of the program, connect with the fan base on a deeper level, and carry on the legacy of Kentucky basketball.
Kentucky vs. Louisville (and Everyone Else)
Given his profile, it’s no surprise that both Kentucky and Louisville are already circling. The Wildcats and Cardinals have long battled over in-state talent, and Lindsay could represent the next chapter in that heated rivalry. While Pope works to re-establish Kentucky as the premier recruiting power in the region, Louisville’s Pat Kelsey won’t go down without a fight.
But this won’t just be a two-horse race. As Lindsay continues to develop, expect other national powers—Duke, Kansas, North Carolina, and beyond—to enter the conversation. If his stock continues to rise, his recruitment could quickly turn into one of the most high-profile battles of the 2028 cycle.
A Visit in the Works
Speaking with Kentucky Sports Radio (subscription required), Lindsay made it clear that he has serious interest in Kentucky, even this early. He mentioned that he wants to take an official visit to Lexington, something that could materialize in the near future.
For Pope and his staff, that’s a crucial step. Landing a visit not only gives the Wildcats a chance to showcase the new direction of the program but also allows Lindsay to experience what makes Big Blue Nation special—something recruits often say leaves a lasting impression.
Why It Matters for Kentucky
Some might wonder why a program like Kentucky is spending time recruiting a player who won’t graduate high school until 2028. The answer is simple: vision and momentum.
Mark Pope understands that building Kentucky basketball back into a dominant force isn’t just about winning the next recruiting cycle—it’s about consistently stacking elite classes year after year. By identifying Lindsay early and building a relationship before other national powers fully lock in, the Wildcats are putting themselves in position to control the narrative.
For Big Blue Nation, it’s a reassuring sign. Not only is Kentucky aggressively targeting top-tier players in 2025 and 2026, but they’re also making sure the long-term foundation is solid.
