Lance Ware makes statement at Hoophall Classic while outplaying No. 1 overall recruit

There have been grumblings that Kentucky is still missing a frontcourt piece in the 2020 recruiting class. Many think with the graduation of Nate Sestina and likely departure of Nick Richards that the Cats will need some additional options at the forward/center position.

This weekend provided some evidence that that missing piece may already be set to make his way to Lexington.

Four-star power forward Lance Ware made a monumental statement on Saturday by outplaying Evan Mobley, the unanimous #1 player in the class of 2020.

Not only did Ware pour in 18 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 steals, but he also got the victory for his team who has now won seven straight. He also helped limit Mobley to just 14 points and six rebounds.

The game took place at the highly coveted Hoophall Classic in Springfield (MA), so his performance will go a long way in getting more respect nationally.

Currently 247 Sports ranks him as the fifth-best power forward in America and the 36th-best recruit. But after yesterday’s impressive performance against a 7-footer like Evan Mobley, you can bet that his stock will remain on the rise.

Last month, I attended a high school holiday tournament in Florida and was bombarded by positive feedback about Ware from those in attendance. Recruiting analyst, videographers, and coaches raved about his rapid paced development and tremendously high ceiling. I was also told by more than person that Ware will fit well into Kentucky’s system because his ballhanding and ability to run a dribble drive offense is improving everyday.

Despite his four-star ranking Ware is starting to show that he possesses the size and skill to finish his senior season as one of the top players in the nation.

Another interesting twist is that Lance Ware has a high school teammate that has a tie to John Calipari and the University of Kentucky.

DJ Wagner, son of former Memphis standout Dajuan Wagner, also plays for Camden High School in New Jersey. It’s obvious that with his father’s connection to Coach Calipari that DJ Wagner could be a Kentucky target in the class of 2022, and Ware could help aid those efforts.

It goes without saying that Lance Ware winning a matchup against the best big man in the country bodes well for the Cats.

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