‘I’m super excited’: Braydon Hawthorne’s long basketball wait is finally over

While scanning the UK basketball practice court — the closest thing he’s seen to a competitive arena since arriving on campus nearly 18 months ago — Braydon Hawthorne was asked to look a little ways into the future.

Not back into the recent past, which has been one long waiting game. Not at the present, and the preparation that comes with a new college basketball season on the horizon. But to a moment in the future — now as near as can be — when he’ll get to step onto the Rupp Arena court for the first time and know that outside competition awaits.

How excited is Hawthorne for his first real action as a Kentucky Wildcat?

The 6-foot-8 forward’s neutral look quickly transforms into a wide smile of anticipation.

“It’s right here,” he responds, still smiling, the tone in his voice suggesting he can't quite believe the time has finally arrived, his expression rendering the next three words he’s about to speak redundant.

“I'm super excited,” Hawthorne says, shaking his head before continuing. “I can't even put it into words. I don't know when the last time I played was. And I will never take it for granted. Ever.”