Lance Ware commits to Kentucky: Highlights and Scouting Report

Lance Ware is officially rocking Kentucky blue.

On Thursday, Ware gave his verbal commitment to play for the Wildcats. Pat Lawless broke the news:

The other finalists were Ohio States, Michigan, Miami and Providence, though Kentucky was viewed as the heavy favorite ever since he netted a scholarship offer this summer.

The Camden (NJ) native emerged as a top 50 prospect this year after a strong showing on the AAU circuit. He saved his best for last at the Peach Jam, where he averaged 14.4 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks over five games. He had three blocks in four of the five games, and Kentucky certainly needs more rim protection in the paint. That’s even more true with EJ Montgomery and/or Nick Richards likely going to the NBA next year coupled with Nate Sestina graduating.

Though he commits without taking an official visit to Kentucky, Ware did take an unofficial visit to Lexington in 2018 for Big Blue Madness, but he didn’t get his offer until July 26th of this year. Soon after the offer was announced, a flood of predictions for Kentucky came in in 247 Sports’ crystal ball and Rivals’ futurecast.

As soon as the Wildcats offered, they made Ware a priority for this class, which became even more clear when John Calipari and Kenny Payne traveled to Ware’s home for a visit on Sept 9th, the first day of the live recruiting period.

Then a day later, Ware announced his decision date for this Thursday, and the rest is history.

Ware is the No. 32 player in the 2020 class, according to the 247 Sports composite rankings. But after an outstanding summer, it may only be a matter of time before he adds that fifth star and potentially earns a spot in the McDonald’s All-American Game.

“I think he’s consistently getting better over the last year, year and a half,” recruiting expert Evan Daniels told the Herald-Leader. “He’s got good size for the position. He’s lean, he’s long, he’s mobile, he’s fluid. He’s a fine athlete, and I think he’s got good hands. His scoring touch around the basket has continued to develop and improve. He can score on the block, and he can also make mid-range jump shots.

“I think there’s a lot to like about his potential and upside.”

The 6-9 power forward is a great piece to add as John Calipari looks to put together his 2020 class, which also includes Cam’Ron Fletcher and Brandon Boston. The addition of Ware now moves Kentucky into the No 1 recruiting class for 2020, according to 247 Sports.

Be sure to read Drew’s breakdown of Ware.

Here is the 247 Sports scouting report of Ware:

A lefty with length and some athletic bounce. Primarily a finesse player at this point. Needs to develop strength. Does have a nose for the basketball to come up with rebounds, blocks and steals. Rapidly improving as a rising senior. Has touch inside the arc and will likely extend his shooting range. Capable ballhandler and passer. Has a high ceiling and projects as a skilled NBA forward. – Jerry Meyer

Now, check out some of Ware’s highlights to see what Kentucky is getting in their first frontcourt commit of 2020:

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