LEXINGTON, KY — In a heartfelt and emotional statement released Thursday evening, top recruit Acaden Lewis officially announced his decision to decommit from the University of Kentucky, bringing an end to what had once seemed like the beginning of a promising chapter with the Wildcats.
Lewis, a highly touted four-star guard in the class of 2025, was expected to be a major piece of Kentucky’s future under new head coach Mark Pope. Known for his court vision, explosive playmaking, and leadership qualities, the young guard’s commitment to Big Blue Nation had generated considerable excitement just months ago.
But in a surprising turn of events, Lewis took to social media to announce his departure — and he did so with grace, gratitude, and emotion.
“This is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,” Lewis began. “I want to thank Coach Pope and the entire Kentucky coaching staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to be a part of one of the most legendary basketball programs in the country. This journey was short, but it meant the world to me.”
While Lewis did not address the specifics behind his decommitment, his message focused on his appreciation for the support he received from Kentucky fans, who welcomed him with open arms after his initial commitment.
“To the fans — you are the best fans in the world,” Lewis wrote. “I felt the love from day one. The way you supported me, cheered for me, and embraced me like family is something I will never forget. That’s what makes Kentucky special. The passion, the pride, the tradition — it’s unmatched.”
His words quickly gained traction online, with thousands of likes, shares, and comments from fans who expressed their continued support and understanding.
Speculation had swirled earlier in the day about Lewis’s future with the program, following reports that suggested there may have been internal concerns about his fit within the team culture. Head coach Mark Pope addressed the situation in a press conference, referring to the decision as “surprising and disappointing,” and citing behavioral concerns that ultimately led the staff to reevaluate the commitment.
However, Lewis’s public message did not allude to any controversy. Instead, it struck a tone of maturity and reflection.
“This is not goodbye forever,” Lewis added. “It’s just a change in direction. I need to take some time to reevaluate where I am and make the best decision for my future — not just as a basketball player, but as a person.”
He concluded his statement with a heartfelt nod to the legacy of the program.
“Being connected to Kentucky, even for a short time, is an honor. I’ll always be grateful for the experience and the people I’ve met. I wish the Wildcats nothing but success and I’ll be cheering you on from afar.”
The decommitment comes at a pivotal moment for Kentucky basketball, as Coach Pope continues reshaping the program after the departure of longtime head coach John Calipari. While losing a high-profile recruit is never ideal, the program’s future remains bright, with Pope already making significant moves on the recruiting trail.
As for Lewis, his next destination remains uncertain. Several other major programs are expected to pursue the talented guard now that he’s back on the market, though no formal visits or new commitments have been announced as of yet.
For many Kentucky fans, the departure of Acaden Lewis is bittersweet — a loss of talent, but a reminder of the human side of college athletics. And if his farewell message is any indication, Lewis will always carry a piece of Kentucky with him, no matter where his journey leads next.
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