Key takeaways:

– High school basketball star Trent Noah reopens his recruitment after being granted a release from his agreement with the University of South Carolina.
– Noah has hinted at wanting to pursue opportunities in his home state of Kentucky.
– He could potentially join the roster of the Kentucky Wildcats, which has recently experienced upheaval with a change in coaching staff and player transfers.
– The addition of Noah, who holds the 5th place on the state scoring chart, could provide a boost to Kentucky’s program.

A New Chapter for Trent Noah

In Kentucky basketball news, top recruit Trent Noah has reignited the recruitment scene. He had initially signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) to play for the University of South Carolina back in October. The University, however, has released him from this commitment, putting him back on the market.

Noah announced this decision on Twitter on Monday, stating that after extensive discussion with his family, he aimed to pursue basketball opportunities closer to his Kentucky home.

Noah’s Background and Ranking

Noah, a four-star prospect from Harlan County High School, was ranked 105th nationally and 25th among all small forwards by 24/7 Sports. In his senior year, he averaged an impressive 29.9 points per game, leading his team to a state runner-up spot. With 3,707 career points, the talented Noah ranked as the 5th best scorer in Kentucky’s history.

This development could lead to Noah joining forces with the state’s top scorer, Travis Perry, who committed to Kentucky during John Calipari’s reign. Perry chose to stay on with the Wildcats even after the surprising coaching shift to Mark Pope.

Kentucky Basketball’s Reshaping

The possible acquisition of Noah comes at a critical juncture for the Kentucky basketball program. Since Coach Calipari’s startling move to Arkansas, and Mark Pope’s controversial appointment from BYU, the Wildcats have seen multiple departures via the transfer portal. Four players, Adou Thiero, Aaron Bradshaw, Joey Hart and Zvonimir Ivisic, chose to leave.

However, new coach Mark Pope has been diligently rebuilding the program, securing some of the top transfers in the country. If Noah decides to join, he would certainly be a valuable addition to this line-up.

24/7 Sports notes Noah’s strengths as a solid defensive player, an excellent shooter, and a smart player with a good grasp of the offensive structure. Noah is known for his strong and broad frame, allowing him to defend against larger opponents, and for his abilities as a wing rebounder. Some improvements are still needed in his defensive quickness and his capacity to create his own offense.

As of now, the speculation surrounding Noah’s next move continues to mount. The Lexington Herald-Leader recently addressed this in a headline: “Kentucky high school basketball star backs out of SEC commitment. Will he play for Mark Pope?” Only time shall tell.

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