Kentucky Basketball Recruiting: James Wiseman talks reclassification; could be in college for 2 years

Kyle Tucker of SEC Country recently spent some time with top 2019 recruit James Wiseman and his family.

Among many things to come from that conversation, Wiseman continues to leave the door open to reclassifying to the 2018 class.

When asked directly about the possibility of this being his last season in high school, he was anything but clear.

“No possibility,” Wiseman told Tucker with a grin, “but you never know.”

For the 2018 class, Kentucky currently has 3 guards signed on: Keldon Johnson, Immanuel Quickley, and Tyler Herro. While most if not all of the Wildcats’ front court is expected to return next year, Wiseman would come in and make an immediate impact.

The big lefty can score from the perimeter, run the floor, and create his own shots. He is certainly a special player, and his versatility is definitely something Kentucky is missing in this year’s class. Wiseman’s commitment for 2018 would also ease the sting of Calipari missing on several other top recruits this year.

Kentucky continues to be the heavy favorite for Wiseman, as those around him reiterated to Tucker, and at this point it seems like there’s a real possibility he could join the Wildcats this fall.

Most players that decide not to reclassify are pretty clear on their decision. As you can see, Wiseman has not been as direct in his denials. It could be that he is waiting to see who returns to Lexington next season. Or perhaps he wants to finish this high school season before deciding.

Regardless, the implications for his reclassification could mean more to the Kentucky Wildcats than it normally would with a recruit changing classes. As Tucker points out, Wiseman will have his 17th birthday on March 31st.

Under current NBA rules, he would not be eligible for the draft until 2020, as players are required to be 19 years old before entering.

Putting that into context, if James Wiseman joined the 2018 class at Kentucky (or anywhere for that matter), he would be required to stay in college for two years.

In the meantime, have a look at some highlights of high school junior James Wiseman.

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