Kentucky basketball continues to flex its recruiting muscle on the national stage, with another major win in the race for one of the nation’s top prospects. Anthony Thompson, a dynamic five-star forward out of Montverde Academy in Florida, announced today that Kentucky has made the cut as one of his final choices. Thompson, ranked as the No. 5 player in the 2025 class according to multiple recruiting services, trimmed his list down to five programs: Kentucky, Duke, Kansas, UConn, and Alabama. In what is shaping up to be one of the most intense recruiting battles of the cycle, Kentucky’s inclusion comes as a massive but not surprising development given John Calipari’s relentless pursuit of the elite talent.
Thompson has been a household name among basketball scouts and recruiting analysts since his freshman year, praised for his rare blend of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ. Standing 6-foot-8 and weighing 215 pounds, he brings a versatile skill set that allows him to dominate both on the perimeter and in the paint. He’s long been touted as a future NBA lottery pick, and his polished offensive game—combined with his improving defensive versatility—makes him one of the most coveted players in the 2025 class. Kentucky’s history of producing NBA-ready players is a major draw for Thompson, and sources close to his camp have noted that the program’s strong development track record is playing a significant role in his decision-making process.
Recruiting insiders have pointed to Kentucky’s persistent efforts to build a strong relationship with Thompson and his family. Calipari and his staff have made Thompson a priority since early in the cycle, visiting him multiple times during the high school season and hosting him for an official visit that insiders described as “outstanding.” During his trip to Lexington, Thompson got a first-hand look at Kentucky’s facilities, sat down with the coaching staff for detailed conversations about his potential role, and attended a game at Rupp Arena where he witnessed the passion of Big Blue Nation. Those close to the recruitment say Thompson was particularly impressed by Kentucky’s vision for his future, one that includes immediate playing time and a prominent spot in the offense.
Kentucky’s pitch has focused heavily on positioning Thompson as a centerpiece of its 2025 recruiting class. With several top prospects already expressing strong interest or pledging to the Wildcats, Calipari has been able to sell a vision of Thompson leading a new wave of talent in Lexington. He would be a perfect fit for the fast, aggressive style Kentucky plans to implement, utilizing his ability to push the ball, stretch the floor, and defend multiple positions. In a class where versatility and two-way impact are prized more than ever, Thompson stands out as an ideal fit for the modern game and a potential college basketball superstar.
Thompson’s game is already at a college level in many aspects. His midrange jumper is silky smooth, his three-point shot continues to improve, and he can break defenders down off the dribble with ease. Defensively, his length and anticipation allow him to disrupt passing lanes, guard multiple positions, and protect the rim when necessary. Analysts have consistently praised his motor, maturity, and willingness to do the little things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet but are critical to winning games. For a program like Kentucky, which has always emphasized team-first basketball alongside individual stardom, Thompson checks every box.
The Wildcats are not alone in their pursuit. Duke, long known for pulling in top-tier talent, has been aggressively recruiting Thompson as well. The Blue Devils’ new staff, following Jon Scheyer’s departure for the NBA, has made a strong impression, focusing on Duke’s tradition and recent success in blending young stars with experienced leadership. Kansas and UConn, both coming off deep NCAA Tournament runs, have also made compelling cases, offering Thompson a chance to play for programs with winning traditions and strong developmental reputations. Alabama, under Nate Oats, continues to be a growing force on the recruiting trail, pitching an up-tempo style and a proven record of sending wings and forwards to the NBA.
Still, Kentucky feels like it’s in a strong position, largely because of the deep relationships the staff has built with Thompson and his inner circle. Sources familiar with his recruitment suggest that comfort, trust, and vision for development are the three most important factors in his decision. Kentucky’s track record speaks for itself—recent Wildcats like Anthony Davis, Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Booker, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and many others have gone on to become NBA stars. That proven pipeline remains an extremely persuasive selling point to elite prospects like Thompson, who harbor NBA dreams.
Another element working in Kentucky’s favor is the recent success of their NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) program. Kentucky has emerged as one of the nation’s leaders in helping student-athletes maximize their marketability, and with Thompson expected to be a huge draw wherever he lands, the potential to profit from endorsements and personal branding opportunities is another advantage the Wildcats can offer. While Thompson and his camp have emphasized that basketball fit and development are their primary concerns, it’s impossible to ignore how NIL opportunities can impact a prospect’s decision.
Throughout the recruiting process, Thompson has kept things relatively low-key, avoiding the drama and social media theatrics that often accompany high-profile recruitments. His measured approach and focus on relationships have made this recruitment more about fit than flash. That, in turn, favors programs like Kentucky that can offer both substance and style. While timelines in recruiting can often shift, Thompson has indicated he plans to make his college decision before the start of his senior season, wanting to focus fully on winning a national title with Montverde without the distractions of an ongoing recruitment.
In conversations with reporters, Thompson has repeatedly stressed that he’s looking for a “family environment,” a coaching staff that will push him to be great, and a system where he can grow his game without being boxed into one position. Kentucky has checked those boxes during every step of the process. Calipari’s history of giving freedom to skilled forwards to show their entire arsenal on offense and defense is something Thompson has noticed. He envisions himself playing a role similar to past Kentucky standouts who were allowed to be playmakers, shot creators, and defensive anchors all at once.
The competition for Thompson’s services is far from over. As decision day approaches, the programs on his final list will continue to roll out the red carpet, emphasize their unique selling points, and attempt to make that final, lasting impression. But those close to the situation believe Kentucky has done a remarkable job positioning itself as the favorite, or at the very least, a co-favorite alongside Duke. Nothing is guaranteed in recruiting until a letter of intent is signed, but there is growing optimism in Lexington that the Wildcats might land yet another future star.
For Kentucky fans, the excitement around Thompson is palpable. Already known for their passion and enthusiasm, Big Blue Nation has been buzzing about the possibility of adding the five-star forward to a class that could rank among the best in recent memory. Thompson’s combination of talent, work ethic, and charisma would make him an instant fan favorite and a potential program-changer. Given the way college basketball is evolving, having elite, NBA-ready players like Thompson is critical for programs with national championship aspirations.
The next few months will be critical, as official visits, in-home meetings, and final pitches will shape Thompson’s ultimate decision. Kentucky has laid the groundwork with a methodical, personal approach that has resonated with the Thompson family. If Calipari and his staff can continue building momentum and making Anthony Thompson feel like a top priority, the Wildcats could be celebrating another monumental recruiting victory before long.
At this stage, nothing is certain, but Kentucky’s chances appear as strong as ever. Making the final five is a crucial milestone, and now the real work of closing the deal begins. For Big Blue Nation, the dream of seeing Anthony Thompson in Kentucky blue is very much alive—and if the Wildcats can finish the job, the future in Lexington could be even brighter than it already looks.