Breaking: Pitt Set to Host 2025 Four-Star SF Braydon Hawthorne for Visit in Key WV Basketball Recruiting Battle….
In a major development on the 2025 college basketball recruiting front, the University of Pittsburgh is set to host four-star small forward Braydon Hawthorne for an official visit, sources close to the program have confirmed. Hawthorne, a rising talent out of West Virginia, is ranked among the top small forwards in the country and has quickly become one of the most sought-after recruits in the class of 2025.
The 6-foot-7 wing from Charleston has been making waves on the AAU circuit with his versatile skill set, elite athleticism, and two-way impact. His ability to stretch the floor, handle the ball in transition, and defend multiple positions has drawn interest from top programs across the nation. However, Pitt’s growing presence in West Virginia — combined with recent staff efforts to prioritize regional talent — appears to have positioned the Panthers as serious contenders in his recruitment.
Hawthorne’s visit to Pittsburgh, scheduled for mid-May, marks a critical step in the Panthers’ push to secure a commitment from one of the top players in the region. Pitt head coach Jeff Capel and his staff have reportedly been in frequent contact with Hawthorne, emphasizing the immediate role he could play in their system and the opportunity to be a cornerstone in the program’s continued resurgence.
“This visit is big — not just for Pitt, but for the entire recruiting landscape in West Virginia,” said one recruiting analyst familiar with the situation. “Braydon is a difference-maker, and whoever lands him is getting a future pro. Pitt’s made it clear they want to build around players like him.”
West Virginia University has also been heavily involved in Hawthorne’s recruitment, setting the stage for a heated in-state recruiting battle. With WVU undergoing transitions in its coaching staff and team structure, the Mountaineers are fighting to keep Hawthorne close to home. That adds a layer of drama to this visit, as Pitt aims to sway the prized prospect out of WVU’s backyard.
Adding further intrigue is the fact that Hawthorne has yet to narrow down his list of finalists, keeping several high-major programs, including Virginia Tech, Maryland, and Xavier, in the mix. However, his visit to Pitt signals that the Panthers are making a strong late push to become a major factor in his final decision.
If Pitt can impress Hawthorne during his upcoming visit, it could mark a turning point in their 2025 recruiting efforts — and send a message that the Panthers are serious about dominating the regional talent pool.
Hawthorne is expected to announce a list of finalists later this summer, with a possible commitment date set for early fall. Until then, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh to see if they can capitalize on this crucial visit and land one of the most electric wings in the 2025 class.
Stay tuned for updates as the story develops.
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