Top Kentucky High School Basketball Prospect Trent Noah Decommits from South Carolina, Eyes Opportunity with Kentucky Wildcats
Trent Noah, regarded as one of the most exceptional high school basketball players in Kentucky’s recent history, has opted to withdraw his commitment from an SEC school, sparking speculation about a potential move to join head coach Mark Pope’s inaugural squad at the University of Kentucky. On Tuesday, the 6-foot-6 guard from Harlan County, announced via social media his decision to decommit from South Carolina, citing a desire to explore basketball opportunities closer to his home.
Noah had initially committed to South Carolina in early October and formalized his commitment during the fall signing period. Notably, he played a pivotal role in leading Harlan County to victory in the 13th Region and an appearance in the Sweet 16 championship game at Rupp Arena in March, culminating his high school career with an impressive scoring record.
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During this year’s Sweet 16 tournament, Noah showcased his scoring prowess, tallying remarkable performances, including a 48-point outing against Campbell County, marking the fourth-highest scoring game in Boys’ Sweet 16 history. Moreover, he set a new tournament record by sinking 19 three-pointers.
With a career total of 3,707 points, Noah ranks among the top scorers in Kentucky high school basketball history. His decision to reconsider his college choice has generated significant interest, particularly among programs like Kentucky, which Noah had considered during his initial recruitment process.
At the time of his commitment to South Carolina, Noah was rated as a three-star recruit by the 247Sports Composite, ranked 145th nationally in the 2024 recruiting class. However, his recent performances have elevated his status to a four-star recruit, positioned at 105th in the same class.
South Carolina head coach Lamont Paris had praised Noah’s skills and dedication upon his signing with the Gamecocks, highlighting his confidence, shooting ability, and overall basketball acumen. Now, as Noah explores his options anew, his potential addition to Kentucky’s roster could significantly bolster the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
Potential Addition of Trent Noah to Kentucky Men’s Basketball Team?
As Trent Noah explores his options for his collegiate basketball career, speculation mounts regarding the possibility of him remaining in-state and joining the Kentucky Wildcats. With Mark Pope taking the helm as Kentucky’s new head coach, he faces the task of assembling his inaugural roster, leveraging a significant number of vacancies left by departing and transferring players.
Among those departing from the 2023-24 Kentucky squad are Aaron Bradshaw (Ohio State), Joey Hart (Ball State), Zvonimir Ivisic (Arkansas), and Adou Thiero (Arkansas), who have opted to transfer to new schools. Furthermore, Jordan Burks, Ugonna Onyenso, and D.J. Wagner remain in the NCAA transfer portal, indicating potential roster changes ahead. Additionally, players such as Rob Dillingham, Justin Edwards, and Reed Sheppard have declared for the 2024 NBA draft, while Tre Mitchell and Antonio Reeves have concluded their college eligibility.
In constructing his inaugural team, Coach Pope has already confirmed nine players set to join the Wildcats. Notable additions include first-year guards Collin Chandler and Travis Perry, third-year guard Otega Oweh, fifth-year guards Koby Brea, Lamont Butler, and Kerr Kriisa, fifth-year forwards Amari Williams and Andrew Carr, and second-year center Brandon Garrison.
The transfer portal deadline for college basketball players was May 1, with the early-entry deadline for the 2024 NBA draft set on April 27. Players retaining NCAA eligibility who entered the draft have until May 29 to withdraw and return to school, adding further complexity to roster decisions for both players and coaching staffs alike.
