Although Kentucky is in the midst of a jam-packed recruiting weekend, rumors circulating outside of campus raised the possibility that a former Baylor recruit would be making his way to Lexington.
Due to “recent developments,” 7-footer Noah Boyed, who had committed to Baylor from McCook Community College, reopened his recruitment on Friday.
“With recent developments at Baylor University, I am respectfully requesting my release from the Baylor University basketball program to explore other opportunities,” Boyed said in a statement on social media. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to Coach Scott Drew for believing in me and providing me with the opportunity to be a part of the team.
“While this decision is not easy, I am eager and excited to see what the future holds for me, both on and off the court. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.”
Those recent developments recolve around former Baylor assistant coach Alvin Brooks III leaving to become an assistant with Kentucky.
Brooks was a significant recruiter for Baylor during his time there, including being a major part of the recruitment of Boyed.
Boyed averaged 12.6 points and 6.2 rebounds last year before a knee-injury caused him to miss the remainder of the season. He averaged 10.9 points and 8.5 rebounds during the 2022-23 season.
The 7-footer will have three years of eligibility remaining at his next stop.
Kentucky has just three players on its roster for next season, so bodies are at a premium in the transfer portal. Mark Pope has been able to land 6-foot-10 center Amari Williams thus far and will likely have more commits in the coming days.
Boyed originally committed to Baylor over programs including Ohio State, Oklahoma, Nebraska and others.
