How Did West Virginia Get Involved with Braydon Hawthorne?

West Virginia basketball received positive news on Friday evening as they picked up their first commitment from the 2025 class. Braydon Hawthorne, a three-star forward from Huntington Prep, opted for his commitment to the Mountaineer staff.

Hawthorne, 6-foot-8, is a West Virginia native who grew up a WVU fan.

Darian DeVries’ staff has extended over 40 offers during the beginning of their tenure. Hawthorne recently came upon on the recruiting board for the Mountaineers as WVU associate head coach Chester Frazier came to practice at Huntington Prep.

Frazier liked what he saw out of Hawthorne’s game and was able to get him on campus.

Hawthorne took an unofficial visit to West Virginia on Oct. 1.

“It was great. There was great energy from everybody. [The staff] told me that they want me,” Hawthorne said with WV Sports Now.

Hawthorne was able to give the staff the exciting news that he would be committing just days later.

“I feel like nothing is better than to represent your home state,” Hawthorne said.

Hawthorne picked up offers from Florida Gulf Coast, Mount St. Mary’s, Ohio, Old Dominion, Pepperdine, Radford, UMBC and Wichita State. Hawthorne took trips to Ohio and Old Dominion during his recruitment. Hawthorne is the No. 213 prospect in the country and the No. 1 player in the state of West Virginia, according to 247 Sports.

Hawthorne is entering his senior season at Huntington Prep and trying to make the most of it. Hawthorne is listed at 175 pounds and wants to work on gaining weight for preparation for college.

“I’m looking to forward to playing with my teammates for my last year,” he said.

Film Room: West Virginia’s Latest Commit Braydon Hawthorne