Acaden Lewis, a four-star point guard and one of the top-ranked players in the 2025 recruiting class, has officially committed to the University of Connecticut. The standout from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., made his announcement after a highly competitive recruitment process that featured prominent programs such as Kentucky, North Carolina, and Duke.

The 6’3” guard, renowned for his scoring, playmaking, and court vision, was a priority target for Kentucky head coach John Calipari. However, UConn’s compelling pitch — emphasizing immediate impact, a strong developmental program, and a winning culture under head coach Dan Hurley — ultimately won Lewis over.

During his official visit to UConn, Lewis was captivated by the program’s intensity and environment. “The energy in the gym was incredible, and the way the coaching staff maximizes players’ strengths really stood out to me,” Lewis shared. “I knew this was the place where I could thrive and make an immediate impact.”

A Blow for Kentucky
For Kentucky, Lewis’s decision represents a significant setback. The Wildcats, who envisioned him as a cornerstone for their future backcourt, must now regroup and shift focus to other high-profile targets in the 2025 class. Although Kentucky has landed other top recruits, losing Lewis underscores the challenges of navigating an increasingly competitive recruiting landscape.

A Major Win for UConn
For UConn, securing Lewis reinforces their status as a national powerhouse in recruiting and development. Fresh off back-to-back NCAA championships, the Huskies continue to attract elite talent, with Lewis poised to play a pivotal role in their future success.

Lewis’s ability to excel both on and off the ball makes him a seamless fit for Hurley’s adaptable offensive system. His commitment further cements UConn as a premier destination for top prospects seeking a combination of competitive success and individual growth.

More Than Basketball
Beyond the court, Lewis cited UConn’s community atmosphere and the genuine connections he built with the coaching staff as deciding factors in his commitment. “It’s not just about basketball,” Lewis emphasized. “UConn feels like family, and that’s what I was looking for.”

What’s Next
As Lewis prepares to join the Huskies, he is expected to make an immediate impact and help continue UConn’s storied tradition. Meanwhile, Kentucky will look to rebound in the recruiting cycle, with Calipari and his staff focusing on other elite prospects.

Lewis’s decision highlights UConn’s growing influence in the college basketball landscape, signaling to future recruits that the Huskies remain a top-tier program for those seeking collegiate and professional success.