According to multiple sources, 2012 shooting guard Archie Goodwin has committed to the University of Kentucky. He becomes the first Wildcat commitment in the recruiting class of 2012, choosing Kentucky over Arkansas and Memphis.
Per KSR's Matt Jones, Goodwin called John Calipari tonight and told the coach that he was ready to commit. After various outlets reported the news, Goodwin confirmed it himself on Twitter.
ESPN's Dave Telep got a couple of choice quotes from Goodwin that were posted, also via Twitter (seriously, if you're not on the Twitterwebs, you're missing out).
Goodwin, on other potential Kentucky recruits: "Me committing will probably get the ball rolling for the rest of the class. It’s got to start somewhere."
Also, on not picking Arkansas, his hometown school: "I love my state but it’s a business decision and this is best for my career and my family."
Goodwin, who plays for Sylvan Hills in Sherwood, AR, is a huge first commitment for Calipari and the coaching staff. He's ranked 13th overall by Scout and ESPNU, and 12th by Rivals. As a tall "2", Goodwin is a natural fit for Calipari's preferred offensive and defensive schemes. He's a proficient scorer, and can manufacture offense either as a shooter or slasher off the dribble. Given his size, he should turn into a plus defender and perimeter rebounder under Calipari's tutelage. Ideally, he'll end up reminding Kentucky fans of Keith Bogans or DeAndre Liggins.
Where does Goodwin's commitment fit in to Kentucky's recruiting narrative?
While there was talk that Calipari told top recruit Shabazz Muhammad that UK was recruiting him as a "2", there's no reason why Goodwin and Muhammad can't share the same backcourt in SG/SF hybrid roles. In fact, Muhammad told Garrett Tucker of BluegrassHoops.com that he would love to play with Goodwin, and both would complement each other nicely.
As for the true shooting guards that Kentucky was recruiting, Gary Harris and Torian Graham, it remains to be seen if Calipari will still pursue either prospect further. In fact, Calipari had an in-home visit with Harris tonight, a player that just recently resurfaced on Kentucky's big board.
Moreover, the good news may keep rolling in for Kentucky. Perry Ellis will announce his decision tomorrow, and Kentucky is one of four finalists.
But for now, it's all about Goodwin. Below, check out a brief highlights video of him from Team USA, courtesy of C2CHoops.com.
Congrats to Archie Goodwin for choosing Kentucky, and welcome to Big Blue Nation!