Wildcat Blue Nation
Fansided

Alijah Arenas announces top 5 Schools: Will Kentucky land the elite scorer?

Alijah Arenas trimmed his list to 5 as the 5-star sharpshooter sets his site on where to go to school
ByDrew Holbrook|
Jan 14, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope reacts to the action during the second half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Jan 14, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope reacts to the action during the second half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Alijah Arenas' Top 5: Kentucky Basketball in the Hunt for Elite 5-Star Guard

Alijah Arenas, one of the most electrifying scorers in the 2025 class, has trimmed his recruitment list to five schools, and Kentucky is in the mix. The 5-star shooting guard, ranked No. 7 nationally and the top SG in the class per 247Sports Composite, will decide between:

  • Kentucky
  • Arizona (where his father, Gilbert Arenas, starred in college)
  • USC
  • Louisville
  • Kansas

The Wildcats are battling elite programs for the dynamic guard, who continues to rise in the national rankings.

Alijah Arenas Recruiting Profile

Physical Tools and Measurements

  • Position: Shooting Guard (SG)
  • Height: 6-foot-6
  • Weight: 195 lbs
  • Wingspan: 7-foot
  • Standing Reach: 8-foot-9

5-Star Status and National Rankings

  • 247Sports Composite Rating: 99 overall
  • National Ranking: No. 7 in the country
  • Position Ranking: No. 1 shooting guard

Arenas’ rise has been fueled by his incredible growth spurt and dominant performances, making him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 class.

Alijah was recently named a McDonald's All-American, along side Kentucky commit Malachi Moreno, maybe he can help sway the elite score to the bluegrass.

Scouting Report – What Makes Arenas Special?

A Smooth, Versatile Scorer

According to 247Sports Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein, Arenas has elite scoring instincts. While he doesn’t always explode past defenders with his first move, his ability to counter and create space with secondary moves makes him deadly. His deep shooting range and soft natural touch allow him to be a major perimeter threat.

Impressive Size and Length

Arenas is a late-bloomer physically, now standing nearly 6-foot-6 with a massive 7-foot wingspan. His glue-like hands and ability to finish through contact make him a matchup nightmare. While he’s still filling out his frame, his long strides through the lane and ability to extend around defenders give him elite upside.

Defensive Potential

On defense, Arenas’ size and length make him disruptive, but his lateral quickness and on-ball pressure have fluctuated as he continues to grow. As he matures physically, his ability to guard multiple positions will only improve.

Kentucky’s Chances of Landing Arenas

Why Kentucky is a Strong Contender

  • Fit in the System: His scoring ability and length make him a perfect fit for Kentucky’s up-tempo offense.

    • Arenas is a top priority for the Wildcats, but the competition is stiff. Arizona offers family ties with his father, Gilbert Arenas, having played there, while USC provides a local option for the California native. Kansas and Louisville round out the mix as powerhouse programs that could offer major roles.

    What’s Next for Arenas?

    With his final five schools named, the next step is official visits. Kentucky fans will be watching closely as Arenas narrows his decision. Will Big Blue Nation land another elite scorer? Stay tuned for more recruiting updates as Arenas moves closer to a commitment.

    Home/Kentucky football recruiting