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In a crucial recruiting weekend for Mark Stoops and his staff heading into Wednesday’s early signing deadline, Kentucky hosted many recruits this weekend for official visits.
Recruits got the opportunity to attend the Kentucky Basketball team’s win over Utah and see the football program honored on the court for their Governor’s Cup victory over Louisville.
Very cool moment at the last TV timeout. All the big dogs from @UKFootball recognized on the floor along with @UKCoachStoops and the Governor's Cup. pic.twitter.com/A1Jp8CuU6z
— UK Sports Network (@UKSportsNetwork) December 15, 2018
Among the group making visits this weekend was four-star wide receiver Devonta Lee from Louisiana.
Lee made the trip with his high school teammate. Amani Gilmore, who is committed to Kentucky to play quarterback as well as play baseball for the Wildcats.
Heading into his senior season, Kentucky wasn’t even in Lee’s top seven.
However, after Gilmore’s commitment, it seems Lee began to look more closely at Kentucky as a landing spot. Heading into this weekend’s visit, all indications pointed toward Lee staying home to play for LSU.
247’s crystal ball prediction gave LSU a 95% chance to snag Lee.
The receiver even sported LSU gloves in his state championship game.
Devonta Lee brings in a 40-yard touchdown. Vertical game >>>>
— Sam Spiegelman (@samspiegs) December 7, 2018
Oh yeah, and the 4-star is wearing #LSU gloves pic.twitter.com/O4a5bjx4Yc
Those predicting Lee’s fate may want to reconsider their prediction. Following his visit Lee sent out a powerful tweet expressing how much he enjoyed his visit to the Bluegrass.
Man I fell in love with kentucky #BBN ⚪️@CoachMichaelSmi @UKCoachStoops @CoachHinshaw
— Devonta Lee (@DevontaleeLee) December 16, 2018
That has to be a huge confidence boost to Kentucky’s staff, who’s working hard to land him.
Lee would be a massive addition to a Kentucky team that has struggled at wide receiver all season long outside of Lynn Bowden.
In addition, Kentucky will be losing reliable pass catcher David Bouvier and fellow senior Dorian Baker and haven’t had much production from the group of receivers returning.
Lee is a type of player who can make an impact from day one. He is ranked the No. 7 prospect from Louisiana and 177th in the nation.
According to 247’s evaluation of Lee, he is a “physical, aggressive wide receiver. He has a great body and frame.”
Landing him would be a big win for Stoops and possibly make Louisiana a Lexington pipeline as they’d make it two big-time recruits from the Pelican State.