Huntington Prep Basketball Star Braydon Hawthorne Commits to Kentucky, Fulfilling a Dream for Himself and His Proud Parents.
After months of anticipation and a shift in commitment, four-star small forward Braydon Hawthorne has officially committed to the University of Kentucky on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
Beckley native, Braydon Hawthorne, who stands at a towering 6’8″, first made his name at Woodrow Wilson High School, averaging 18.7 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game during his sophomore season.
He further transferred to Huntington Prep, where he led his team in several national championships and won numerous titles.
Furthermore, Hawthorne originally verbally committed to West Virginia University on November 10, 2024, calling it a “dream come true” to stay home and represent his state. But he announced his decommitment on March 18, 2025, citing a desire to explore other programs and make the best decision for his future.
Now, with his commitment to Kentucky Wildcasts, one of college basketball’s most prestigious programs, Braydon Hawthorne has grasped the attention of many, who are curious to know more about his personal life, including details about his parents and family.
Braydon Hawthorne was born in Beckley, West Virginia, to father Walter Hawthorne and mother, whose name is unavailable.
Very little information about Braydon Hawthorne’s parents is available as they prefer to maintain a low profile, but they are often seen cheering him like his biggest fan at their son’s game.
Braydon Hawthorne’s parents have supported him throughout every step of his basketball journey and expressed their pride by being with him when he recently committed to the University of Kentucky.
Walter Hawthorne Frequently Expresses Pride In Son Braydon’s Journey On Social Media
While no information about Braydon’s mother’s personal and professional life is available, his father, Walter Hawthorne, often shares his pride for his son on Social Media.
Furthermore, Braydon Hawthorne often expresses his love for his parents and credits them with guiding him in his sports journey.
Walter Hawthorne was the first person to whom Braydon Hawthorne shared his secret of deciding to commit to the University of Kentucky.
In an interview, Braydon Hawthorne stated that his father, Walter, was the first person to know about his decision, and his father was super excited.
He stated:
“My father was super excited. He just said he wants what’s best for me and said it was up to me what I wanted to do. He’s just gonna be there to support me no matter what.”
On3.com
Braydon Hawthorne’s passion for basketball was deeply influenced by his father, Walter, a former high school athlete who shared his enthusiasm for the sport with all his children.
Both father and son, fans of the Wildcats, travelled to Lexington each year for John Calipari’s father/Son Camp at the basketball facilities.
Who would have thought that one day, proud Kentucky Wildcats fan Walter Hawthorne would see his son join the team?
Furthermore, recently on Braydon’s birthday in February 2025, his father, Walter, shared a heartfelt post that reads:
“Want to wish my son a Happy Birthday !!! I’m VERY PROUD of you!! You have a very bright future ahead! Just know that I always will have your back! Remember to always put God first!!! Love you fella!!!Very Proud Dad!!!!”
Walter Hawthorne
Thanks to his parents’ strong support and his impressive basketball talent, Braydon Hawthorne is excelling in his young career and setting his sights on the NBA.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Braydon Hawthorne’s younger brother, Zyon Hawthorne, is also thriving in his basketball career. He currently plays for the Woodrow Wilson High School boys’ varsity basketball team.
- Braydon also has an older brother, an older sister, and a younger sister named Ryan.
