In a major boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the Kentucky Wildcats have landed a commitment from Acaden Lewis, a top-30 senior guard known for his poise, versatility, and playmaking ability. The 6-foot-2 left-hander from Washington D.C.’s Sidwell Friends School chose Kentucky over fellow basketball powerhouses Duke and UConn, citing the opportunity to make an immediate impact in Lexington.
A Rising Star Makes His Decision
Lewis, who enjoyed a breakout junior season en route to winning Gatorade Player of the Year honors for Washington D.C., was impressed by Kentucky head coach Mark Pope’s vision and the program’s track record of developing elite guards. In an interview with ESPN, Lewis explained his thought process:
“I feel like the opportunity is there to start and play a priority role early as their point guards are all leaving. Coach Pope and his staff have also made me the biggest priority through their actions. They have been down to visit me and talk basketball an extensive amount.”
Acaden Lewis on his commitment to Kentucky
The departures of current Wildcat point guards Lamont Butler and Kerr Kriisa undoubtedly played a role in Lewis’ decision, but it was his strong relationship with Pope that ultimately sealed the deal. Lewis praised Pope as “not only a great basketball mind but a genuine person” who impressed him with his philanthropic efforts off the court.
A Promising Skill Set
Lewis’ game is defined by his strong feel for the game, poise, and ability to control pace. The lefty excels at finding his spots on the floor to score or create for others, and his range extends well beyond the arc. As a junior, he led Sidwell Friends to a championship while claiming Gatorade Player of the Year honors in D.C.
On the Nike EYBL circuit this spring and summer, Lewis continued to impress with Team Durant, averaging 16.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game – good for third on the circuit in assists. His ability to stuff the stat sheet and make plays for himself and others has scouts excited about his potential at the next level.
Bolstering the Backcourt
Lewis becomes the third top-50 prospect to commit to Kentucky in the 2025 class, joining five-star guard Jasper Johnson (No. 13) and in-state center Malachi Moreno (No. 37). His addition gives the Wildcats a potential star at the point guard position and a foundation to build around in the backcourt.
With his ability to create off the dribble, stretch the floor, and make plays in transition, Lewis should fit seamlessly into Pope’s uptempo system at Kentucky. His unselfish approach and knack for getting teammates involved could help elevate the games of Johnson and Moreno, forming a potent trio for the Wildcats.
Embracing the Big Blue Nation
For Lewis, the opportunity to play in front of the passionate Kentucky fanbase was a major selling point. He described the Wildcat faithful as “absolutely crazy” and noted how many of them reached out to wish him a happy birthday and encourage him to join Big Blue Nation.
“BBN is absolutely crazy. They are in my DMs telling me to come over and on my visit many of them knew me and even wished me a happy birthday. The community feels real.”
Lewis on the Kentucky fanbase
As Lewis prepares for his senior season at Sidwell Friends and his eventual arrival in Lexington, expectations will be high. Kentucky fans are known for their passionate support and lofty expectations, but Lewis seems eager to embrace the challenge and spotlight that comes with being a Wildcat.
The Road Ahead
With his commitment, Lewis becomes the latest in a long line of elite guards to choose Kentucky, following in the footsteps of recent stars like Tyrese Maxey, Immanuel Quickley, and Tyler Herro. If he can live up to his potential and help lead the Wildcats to success, he could become the next household name to emerge from the Kentucky backcourt.
For now, though, Lewis will focus on finishing his high school career on a high note and preparing himself for the rigors of SEC basketball. With his skill set, mindset, and the support of Big Blue Nation behind him, the future looks bright for this rising star and the Kentucky program he’ll soon call home.
On the Nike EYBL circuit this spring and summer, Lewis continued to impress with Team Durant, averaging 16.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game – good for third on the circuit in assists. His ability to stuff the stat sheet and make plays for himself and others has scouts excited about his potential at the next level.
Bolstering the Backcourt
Lewis becomes the third top-50 prospect to commit to Kentucky in the 2025 class, joining five-star guard Jasper Johnson (No. 13) and in-state center Malachi Moreno (No. 37). His addition gives the Wildcats a potential star at the point guard position and a foundation to build around in the backcourt.
With his ability to create off the dribble, stretch the floor, and make plays in transition, Lewis should fit seamlessly into Pope’s uptempo system at Kentucky. His unselfish approach and knack for getting teammates involved could help elevate the games of Johnson and Moreno, forming a potent trio for the Wildcats.
Embracing the Big Blue Nation
For Lewis, the opportunity to play in front of the passionate Kentucky fanbase was a major selling point. He described the Wildcat faithful as “absolutely crazy” and noted how many of them reached out to wish him a happy birthday and encourage him to join Big Blue Nation.
“BBN is absolutely crazy. They are in my DMs telling me to come over and on my visit many of them knew me and even wished me a happy birthday. The community feels real.”
Lewis on the Kentucky fanbase
As Lewis prepares for his senior season at Sidwell Friends and his eventual arrival in Lexington, expectations will be high. Kentucky fans are known for their passionate support and lofty expectations, but Lewis seems eager to embrace the challenge and spotlight that comes with being a Wildcat.
The Road Ahead
With his commitment, Lewis becomes the latest in a long line of elite guards to choose Kentucky, following in the footsteps of recent stars like Tyrese Maxey, Immanuel Quickley, and Tyler Herro. If he can live up to his potential and help lead the Wildcats to success, he could become the next household name to emerge from the Kentucky backcourt.
For now, though, Lewis will focus on finishing his high school career on a high note and preparing himself for the rigors of SEC basketball. With his skill set, mindset, and the support of Big Blue Nation behind him, the future looks bright for this rising star and the Kentucky program he’ll soon call home.
