“I’m KY until I die”: Kentucky and Mark Pope land 5-star recruit in latest commitment move 

Another success in Mark Pope’s 2025 recruiting class came with five-star Jasper Johnson’s commitment to the program on Thursday. The shooting guard is the state’s best player and ensured that local fans are in for a show next season.

Before announcing his decision during a ceremony at Woodford County High School, Johnson pretended to order a pizza. However, the box contained a No. 30 Kentucky Wildcats jersey.

“Being from Lexington, KY, that was an easy decision right there,” Johnson said in an interview afterwards. “I feel like I’m KY until I die."

Jasper Johnson picked Mark Pope’s program over Alabama, Arkansas, Louisville and North Carolina, which he had previously lined up as his finalists. The happenings in recent months leaned more towards Nate Oats landing Johnson's commitment.

Johnson’s roots are tied to the Wildcats program. His father, Dennis Johnson, was a star defensive lineman for the institution from 2000-2002.

Ranked No. 13 on ESPN, Johnson averaged 14.8 points in Nike’s EYBL circuit. As his Team Thad secured a Peach Jam spot, Johnson put up 19.8 ppg throughout five games in July.

For Mark Pope, Johnson will also bring in international experience through his U18 gold medal stint for Team USA in the FIBA AmeriCup.

Jasper Johnson's commitment is a good sign for Mark Pope's Kentucky

Jasper Johnson’s commitment bolsters Pope’s first recruitment class as, currently, the best in the SEC. Moreover, it also speaks volumes about Pope’s acumen.

Johnson is a versatile shot-creator, who can efficiently shoot the ball and also take it to the basketball. His near 6-foot-9 wingspan allows him to creatively finish on layups and also guard wings at the same time. He can also find open teammates and catch defenders off guard with floaters.

Now, with Johnson and Malachi Moreano, Pope has landed two of the top players in the country before coaching a single game for the Wildcats. Young players seem to be responding well to his reputation and approach, ensuring the Wildcats should be contenders for blue-chip players in the future as well.

Mark Pope’s staff is currently eyeing three top 10 prospects from ESPN’s Top 100 in the coming class, Nate Ament (4th), Caleb Wilson (5th) and Chris Cenac Jr. (7th). Moreover, Mikel Brown (12th), Tounde Yessoufou (18th) and Braylon Mullins (24th) are also reportedly on the radar.

How do you think Mark Pope's Kentucky Wildcats will fare next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.