Kentucky Basketball Lands Five-Star Commitment in Class of 2024
Kentucky basketball has finally secured its first five-star commitment in the Class of 2024. Boogie Fland, a combo guard from Archbishop Stepinac in New York, chose the Wildcats over Alabama and Indiana. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development.
Fland, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 170 pounds, is ranked No. 20 overall and is considered the second-best combo guard in the 247Sports Composite rankings. He joins Somto Cyril, a four-star center from Overtime Elite, as Kentucky’s only other pledge in the Class of 2024. Cyril is ranked No. 52 overall.
The Wildcats had a slow start to the recruiting cycle, with other top programs like Duke, North Carolina, and Missouri already securing two five-star commitments. Even schools like Alabama, Arizona, Auburn, Kansas, Indiana, Miami, and Rutgers had one before Kentucky landed its first. However, head coach John Calipari was determined to change that with Fland.
Calipari made multiple visits to Fland, including an official visit to Lexington on September 8. The head coach’s efforts paid off as Fland ultimately chose Kentucky. Calipari’s persistence and full-court press played a significant role in securing the commitment.
So, what does Kentucky get with Fland? They acquire one of the most explosive scorers in the Class of 2024. Fland has a knack for scoring and can be unstoppable when he gets hot. While he could improve his shot selection and shooting percentage from beyond the arc, Fland is known for making tough shots. He doesn’t need much space to release his shot. Additionally, Fland is an energetic and active defender who disrupts opponents’ plays. Last season at Stepinac, he averaged 18.1 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. On the Nike grassroots circuit, Fland averaged 15 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.
With Fland’s commitment, Kentucky’s recruiting momentum may continue to build. The Wildcats are set to host Jayden Quaintance, the seventh-ranked player in the Class of 2024, for a visit next weekend. Karter Knox, the brother of former UK star Kevin Knox, has narrowed his options to Kentucky, Louisville, South Florida, and the G League Ignite. Billy Richmond, ranked No. 31 overall, is also nearing a decision and has Kentucky as one of his final four choices. In-state prospect Travis Perry, a top-100 player nationally, recently visited Rupp Arena for Big Blue Madness.
During SEC Media Day, Calipari expressed his excitement about new assistant coach Chuck Martin, who has already made an impact on recruiting. Calipari mentioned that the Class of 2024 looks promising, and the Class of 2025 is even better. Kentucky has already hosted six of the top 20 players in the Class of 2025.
It’s clear that Calipari’s recruiting efforts are far from over. Kentucky is known for its ability to attract top talent, and this latest commitment from Fland is just the beginning. With a strong coaching staff and a rich basketball tradition, the Wildcats will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.
In conclusion, Kentucky basketball has secured its first five-star commitment in the Class of 2024 with Boogie Fland. Fland brings explosive scoring ability and tenacious defense to the Wildcats. With more top prospects on the horizon, Kentucky’s future looks bright. Coach Calipari’s dedication to recruiting ensures that the Wildcats will remain a powerhouse in college basketball for years to come.