A 2025 four-star point guard has withdrawn from Kentucky’s commitment.
The Kentucky Wildcats’ basketball program recently experienced a significant shift in their 2025 recruiting class with the decommitment of four-star point guard Acaden Lewis. Lewis, a 6-foot-2 prospect from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., had initially pledged to Kentucky in November 2024, choosing the Wildcats over prominent programs like Duke and UConn.
Lewis’s Initial Commitment
Acaden Lewis’s commitment was a pivotal moment for Coach Mark Pope and the Wildcats. At the time, Lewis was ranked as the No. 32 overall player in the 2025 class by 247Sports. His decision was influenced by the opportunity to play alongside elite talent and receive guidance that he believed would prepare him for a professional career. Lewis expressed that Kentucky’s coaching staff made him feel like a priority, offering support and guidance that aligned with his aspirations.
The Decommitment
On April 10, 2025, Lewis announced his decision to reopen his recruitment, stating the need to make the best choice for his future. This announcement came as a surprise to many, given his earlier reaffirmations of commitment even after Coach Pope’s arrival. Lewis’s departure leaves a noticeable gap in Kentucky’s backcourt for the 2025–26 season.
Impact on Kentucky’s Recruiting Strategy
Lewis’s decommitment necessitates a reevaluation of Kentucky’s recruiting strategy. The Wildcats currently hold commitments from five-star guard Jasper Johnson and five-star big man Malachi Moreno. However, with the point guard position now unoccupied, Coach Pope and his staff are expected to intensify efforts to secure another top-tier point guard for the 2025 class. This may involve pursuing other high school prospects or exploring options in the transfer portal to address the vacancy.
Current Roster Outlook
As the Wildcats adjust to this change, the projected starting lineup for the upcoming season includes veteran Jaland Lowe, a transfer from Pitt, at point guard. The shooting guard position is expected to be filled by Jasper Johnson, whose athleticism and NBA potential have been widely praised. Otega Oweh, a key returner, is slated for the power forward role, with Mouhamed Dioubate, an Alabama transfer, and Jayden Quaintance, a top recruit recovering from a torn ACL, rounding out the frontcourt.
Looking Ahead
The decommitment of Acaden Lewis underscores the dynamic nature of college basketball recruiting, where commitments can be fluid, and programs must remain adaptable. For Kentucky, the immediate focus will be on filling the point guard position to ensure the team remains competitive in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring Coach Pope’s next moves as he seeks to strengthen the Wildcats’ roster in response to this unexpected development.
