BREAKING: KENTUCKY NATIVE  FLIPS COMMITMENT TO KENTUCKY WILDCATS — CALLS HOMETOWN DREAM “TOO SPECIAL TO PASS UP”…..SEE MORE…

In a move that will have Big Blue Nation buzzing, Kentucky native and 4-star wing Trent Noah has flipped his commitment from South Carolina to Kentucky, joining Mark Pope’s 2024 recruiting class and fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Noah, a 6-foot-6 scoring forward from Harlan County High School, is one of the top in-state prospects in recent memory and a consensus Top 100 player nationally. Known for his elite shooting touch, high basketball IQ, and toughness, Noah gives the Wildcats a versatile weapon on the wing and brings a sense of Kentucky pride back to the program.

“It’s always been my dream to wear Kentucky blue,” Noah said in a heartfelt video announcement. “When Coach Pope called and told me I could help build something special here, I knew I had to follow my heart.”

Noah originally committed to South Carolina last fall, but after Mark Pope took the reins in Lexington, the new staff reengaged with Noah and made him a priority. Pope’s up-tempo, three-point-friendly system is a perfect fit for Noah’s skillset, and the opportunity to stay home sealed the deal.

In his senior season at Harlan County, Noah averaged 29.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game while shooting over 43% from three-point range. He was named Kentucky Mr. Basketball finalist and became a beloved figure across the state.

“Trent is a special player, but more than that, he’s a Kentucky kid through and through,” Coach Pope said. “He’s tough, he competes, and he knows what it means to represent this program. We’re thrilled to welcome him home.”

Noah said two major reasons influenced his decision: the chance to play for a coach who believes in his game, and the opportunity to represent his home state on college basketball’s biggest stage.

“It means everything to me — for my family, for Eastern Kentucky, and for everyone who’s supported me since day one,” Noah said. “I’m coming to give it everything I’ve got.”

The move also marks Pope’s first major high school signing since taking over, and it could set the tone for future in-state recruiting. With the transfer portal bringing in experienced talent like Otega Oweh (Oklahoma) and Amari Williams (Drexel), Noah helps balance the class with a player who can develop and contribute over multiple seasons.

Wildcats fans quickly flooded social media with hashtags like #NoahToBBN, #KentuckyKid, and #PopeEraBegins, celebrating a hometown hero staying home.

Analysts have compared Noah’s game to former Wildcats sharpshooter Doron Lamb, citing his smooth shooting stroke and ability to stretch the floor.

With this commitment, Kentucky’s 2024 class grows stronger — and deeper in local pride.

“I’m ready to fight for that jersey,” Noah said. “Let’s bring Kentucky back where it belongs — to the top.”