Kentucky’s Mark Pope Lands Game-Changing 5-Star Forward James Brown on Three-Year Deal
Lexington, Ky., April 25, 2025 — In a move that’s already sending shockwaves across the college basketball landscape, new Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has landed his biggest recruiting victory yet. Five-star forward James Brown, one of the top players in the 2025 class, has signed a three-year commitment with the Wildcats, giving the program a cornerstone talent to usher in the Pope era in Lexington.
Brown, a 6-foot-10, 230-pound athletic marvel, is widely regarded as a top-five national prospect and arguably the most dominant frontcourt player in his class. Known for his powerful post presence, elite rebounding, and improved mid-range game, the Chicago native chose Kentucky over offers from Duke, Kansas, and North Carolina. His decision solidifies Pope’s status as a force on the recruiting trail and promises to reshape Kentucky’s trajectory for the next several seasons.
“This is a program-defining addition,” Pope said during Friday’s press conference. “James is not only one of the most talented players I’ve ever recruited, but he’s the kind of young man who leads with character, toughness, and unshakable focus. He’s going to change the game for us—and for Kentucky basketball.”
The Wildcats’ success under Pope was already gaining momentum, but Brown’s signing elevates expectations dramatically. Analysts have called Brown the best power forward prospect Kentucky has signed since Anthony Davis in 2011, drawing comparisons for his length, agility, and defensive instincts.
Brown averaged 23.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.8 blocks per game during his senior season at St. Rita High School in Chicago, earning McDonald’s All-American honors and leading his team to the Illinois state championship game. His dominance in both high school and national showcase events made him one of the most coveted recruits in the country.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing in an environment like Rupp Arena,” Brown said in his commitment video. “Coach Pope believes in me, and I believe in what he’s building. I want to help bring another banner to Lexington. This is home now.”
Brown’s three-year commitment—though largely symbolic due to the fluidity of modern college athletics—signals intent. While many top recruits now opt for one-and-done paths, sources close to Brown say he’s committed to development, winning, and being part of a longer-term culture shift at Kentucky.
NIL opportunities, development infrastructure, and Pope’s modern playing style were all major factors in Brown’s decision. Pope, who took over for John Calipari earlier this month, has emphasized positionless basketball, ball movement, and defense-first intensity—an ideal fit for Brown’s versatile skill set.
“He’s not just a low-post guy,” said one national scout. “James can switch on the perimeter, handle the ball in transition, and hit the midrange with confidence. You’re looking at a potential top-3 NBA Draft pick in two years, maybe sooner.”
Brown joins a 2025 Kentucky class that now ranks No. 1 nationally following his commitment, featuring several four-star guards and wings who will complement his presence in the paint. His leadership, maturity, and NBA-level upside immediately make him the face of the program—and potentially of college basketball.
Kentucky fans reacted with jubilation on social media, with many calling Brown’s commitment a turning point in the post-Calipari era. Rupp Arena is expected to sell out for Brown’s debut, and expectations for SEC dominance—and a Final Four run—are now squarely on the table.
As for Coach Pope, this is more than a recruiting win—it’s a validation of his vision. A former Wildcat himself, Pope is quickly proving he has the ability to lead Kentucky back to national dominance, and James Brown may be the player who gets them there.
“We’re going to do something special here,” Pope said. “And James Brown is going to be a big part of that story.”