Wednesday Headlines: Braydon Hawthorne Putting in Extra Work to Improve Physicality

Love to see these guys locking in early.

Good morning, BBN!

The offseason continues, and Incoming freshman Braydon Hawthorne, listed at 6’8” and just 175 lbs, is embracing the physical challenge ahead by staying after team drills and playing one‑on‑one with the Kentucky Wildcats’ veterans like Jaland Lowe, Mo Dioubaté, and Otega Oweh.

He explained that “the biggest difference is just physicality, little things like angles,” adding: “They know how to use their body well.”

Though ranked as a top‑35 national prospect for the 2025 class, Hawthorne recognizes the gap between potential and production.

To close it, he’s logging extra hours this summer, building strength and honing his defensive fundamentals. “I stay after (practice) and play one‑on‑one with them to get used to it,” he said.

Defensive drills at camp have placed special emphasis on legal contests and closeouts, with players being tracked on how many they make versus how many they miss, and facing consequences for any shortfall.

As Hawthorne described, “If you don’t get 100 percent, there’s a punishment behind it.”

Overall, his commitment to the offseason process signals that the lengthy freshman is serious about turning raw skill into physical readiness.

Do you think Hawthorne will see serious minutes this year? Read more from him here.