Former UK recruit Josh Christopher commits to Arizona State

Joshua Christopher, once a major target for Kentucky, has committed to Arizona State. He picked the Sun Devils over Michigan, who was viewed as the significant favorite going into decision day.

At one time, Christopher looked like one of the likeliest 2020 recruits to ultimately pick Kentucky. After all, the five-star recruit is ranked No. 7 overall and the No. 3 shooting guard via 247 Sports Composite, which measures all of the major recruiting services. There’s was even talk of a package deal with 2020 combo guard Jalen Green, a consensus top-five recruit.

But somehow, John Calipari was able land the No. 1 (Terrence Clarke) and 2 (Brandon Boston) shooting guards in America. And in his pursuit of them, he decided to part ways with Christopher.

It’s crazy to think Kentucky passed on a great shot at landing Christopher, whose brother, Patrick Christopher, is the godbrother of former Kentucky star Tayshaun Prince, is close with the family.

That connection was a big reason why Joshua grew up a die-hard Kentucky fan.

“I would take Josh to New York to the St. John’s camp with Steve Lavin and he would wear Kentucky hoodies. He took his class picture with a Kentucky jersey. One year, he had a UK birthday cake,” Christopher’s father told CatsPause over the summer.

But in the end, Calipari thought it best to pursue Clarke and Boston to play the 2 and 3 spots, while Devin Askew was recruited to run the point.

And it’s worth pointing out that Christopher’s brother, Caleb, plays at Arizona State. That connection ensured the Sun Devils would always be a major player in the recruitment, even with a school like Kentucky involved.

Perhaps Arizona State would have won out even if Kentucky had stayed in the hunt. Thankfully, we don’t have to worry about that, as Calipari managed to assemble what should be one of the best backcourts in American next season.