Kentucky has jumped into the race for one of the top names in the 2027 class, and the timing makes this one especially interesting.
On Tuesday night, top-five wing AJ Williams announced that he had picked up an offer from Mark Pope and the Wildcats. Williams posted, "Blessed to receive an offer from the University of Kentucky," and the new interest comes as his recruitment appears to be moving toward a decision.
There’s been recent buzz that Williams could commit soon, with one program separating itself late in the process. That school is BYU, which is now viewed as the leader as his recruitment reaches its final stretch. Kentucky is trying to make a push anyway, even if it may be arriving late in the game.
Williams was once the top prospect in the 2028 class before moving up to 2027. He’s now being chased by a group that includes Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, North Carolina, Georgia and Duke.
Rivals’ Jamie Shaw described Williams as a polished, physical wing with a strong feel for the game: "AJ Williams brings a mature approach to the game. Positional size, listed at 6-foot-7, he has quality length and explosive athletic pop.
He is the top-ranked player in the 2028 recruiting cycle, and he is a shot-maker. Someone who is comfortable being at the top of a scouting report, and still getting to his spots at multiple levels and finishing plays.
He is not a super-dynamic or super-flashy player, but instead, he is steady, plays with a purpose, and rebounds in his area. Williams was second on last summer’s U16 USA Basketball team in minutes and third in scoring.
There is a lot of depth at his position, but it would also not surprise to see the team provide some different lineups that get their five best players, regardless of position, on the floor at the same time."
Williams also put together a big showing for Team USA at the FIBA U17 World Cup against Japan, finishing with 25 points, seven boards, two assists and two steals while shooting 7-10 from the field, 5-6 from 3-point range and 6-6 at the line in 15 minutes.
The question now is whether Kentucky’s late offer can change anything before Williams makes his call.
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