Anthony Thompson’s Kentucky Visit Raises Eyebrows Amid Controversial Recruitment Buzz
In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the college basketball recruiting world, five-star prospect Anthony Thompson has officially scheduled a visit with Kentucky Basketball — and his camp is signaling that a final decision could come as early as this fall. But beneath the surface of this seemingly routine recruitment update lies a brewing controversy that has insiders and fans buzzing.
Thompson, a 6-foot-7 phenom widely considered one of the top players in the 2025 class, has long been linked with several powerhouse programs, including Duke, Kansas, and Michigan State. But his sudden pivot toward Kentucky — a program that has struggled to regain its former dominance under John Calipari in recent seasons — has raised more than a few questions.
Is Kentucky pulling strings behind the scenes? Some recruiting analysts suggest Thompson’s visit might not be as organic as it appears. Rumors of aggressive NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offers have resurfaced, with whispers of a multimillion-dollar package being floated to secure his commitment. While nothing is confirmed, the lack of transparency in high-profile recruitment battles continues to erode trust in the system.
Critics argue that Kentucky, once a beacon of collegiate basketball tradition, has shifted toward a “buy now, win later” approach. Thompson’s visit — and possible commitment — could be seen as a strategic attempt to reclaim relevance through checkbooks rather than player development and team culture.
Supporters, however, say this is just smart recruiting in a new era. “Everyone’s playing the NIL game,” one Kentucky insider noted. “Why shouldn’t we?”
The visit, scheduled for early September, will likely include a full campus tour, meetings with coaching staff, and an up-close look at the Wildcats’ revamped roster. Whether Thompson walks away convinced, or simply courted, remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: his decision won’t come quietly..
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