LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX18) — Braydon Hawthorne confirmed Tuesday he will return to Kentucky after redshirting in the 2026-2027 season.
Hawthorne, a former four-star recruit, announced his decision on the final day of the transfer portal window, choosing to remain with the Wildcats rather than explore other opportunities.
OFFICIAL: Braydon Hawthorne will return to @KentuckyMBB, he announced on Instagram.
— Hannah Hamelback (@hhamelbackTV) April 21, 2026
A former top 40 recruit, Hawthorne redshirted his first year with the Cats. @BBNTonight @LEX18News pic.twitter.com/BZGGTHLDv8
The Beckley, West Virginia, native did not appear in a game during his first season, preserving all four years of eligibility.
Ranked No. 35 overall and the No. 9 small forward in the 2025 class by On3, Hawthorne originally selected Kentucky over Pittsburgh, Virginia Tech and West Virginia.
Following Kentucky’s Round of 32 loss to Iowa State, Hawthorne told BBN Tonight he intended to stay in Lexington.
With the transfer portal deadline approaching, the Beckley native has now made it official, confirming he will return to Kentucky for the 2026-27 season.
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