Four-star recruit Acaden Lewis has decommited from Kentucky. “I have to do what’s best for my future”

Four-Star Guard Acaden Lewis Decommits from Kentucky: “I Have to Do What’s Best for My Future”

In a surprising move that sends ripples through the college basketball recruiting landscape, four-star guard Acaden Lewis announced on Thursday that he has decommitted from the University of Kentucky. The 2025 prospect took to social media to share the news, stating, “After deep thought and conversations with my family and loved ones, I’ve decided to decommit from the University of Kentucky. I have to do what’s best for my future.”

Lewis, a 6-foot-3 guard from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., had committed to Kentucky in January, giving the Wildcats an early cornerstone in their 2025 recruiting class. He was one of the more highly touted guards in the nation, ranked among the top 50 players in the class by major recruiting services and noted for his court vision, explosiveness, and two-way potential.

The decision marks yet another shakeup for Kentucky basketball, which is entering a new era following the departure of long-time head coach John Calipari. Newly hired head coach Mark Pope is now tasked with stabilizing the program’s recruiting efforts and building a roster that can compete in the new-look SEC.

Lewis’ decommitment comes amid growing uncertainty and transition within the Kentucky program. While Pope has been vocal about his enthusiasm for the job and commitment to maintaining Kentucky’s recruiting dominance, the reality of inheriting a roster and recruiting class mid-cycle has its challenges. Lewis is the first major recruit to publicly back away from the Wildcats following Calipari’s exit.

“I want to thank the University of Kentucky, the fans, and the coaching staff who recruited me,” Lewis added in his post. “This was not an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right one for me at this time.”

The guard’s recruitment is now fully open again, and several programs that previously showed interest—such as Maryland, Virginia, and Villanova—could re-enter the picture. His decommitment is expected to draw significant attention, as Lewis is seen as a player with immediate impact potential at the collegiate level and long-term NBA upside.

As for Kentucky, the loss of Lewis is a setback but not an insurmountable one. Mark Pope and his staff are expected to hit the ground running on the recruiting trail, and there’s optimism that the program’s blueblood status and NIL resources will continue to attract top-tier talent. However, with the landscape of college basketball evolving rapidly, especially in the transfer portal era, building and maintaining a stable roster is more complex than ever.

With the 2025 class still in its early stages, there is plenty of time for both Kentucky and Lewis to move forward with their respective plans. Still, the guard’s decision is a reminder of how fluid college basketball recruiting has become, especially during times of coaching change.

For now, all eyes will be on Lewis’ next move—and how Kentucky adapts as it reshapes its future under a new regime.