Savvy Swords commits to Kentucky — but is she the highest-ranked ever?
Kenny Brooks just added another weapon to his growing arsenal.
On Wednesday, 5-star wing Savvy Swords — ranked No. 18 nationally in the ESPN HoopGurlz 60 — committed to Kentucky, becoming the latest elite prospect to join Brooks in Lexington. A 6-foot-1 force with a college-ready frame, Swords is a three-level scorer who plays with confidence, edge, and versatility. Her game fits perfectly into the kind of tough, skilled roster Brooks is building in year 2 and beyond.
But is she the highest-ranked recruit Kentucky has ever landed?
Not quite — but she’s pretty close.
That distinction still belongs to Linnae Harper, who came to Kentucky as the No. 5 overall recruit in 2013. A dynamic Chicago guard known for her defense and slashing ability, Harper played two seasons under Matthew Mitchell before transferring to Ohio State.
Harper showed flashes during her time in Lexington. As a sophomore, she averaged 11.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game while starting 17 of 33 games. Her physicality and tenacity were clear, even if her time in blue and white was brief.
With Swords now in the fold, three of Kentucky’s four highest-ranked recruits since 2000 have signed under Kenny Brooks — and he’s only entering his second season.
That group also includes:
McDonald's All-American Kaelyn Carroll, who signed earlier this offseason, ranked No. 18 nationally.
And Maddyn Greenway, a 2026 point guard who is currently ranked No. 11 in the country and is expected to lead the Wildcat backcourt of the future.
Brooks isn’t just bringing in talent — he’s bringing in foundational pieces. Kentucky women’s basketball hasn’t always been a recruiting destination, but that narrative is shifting fast.
It’s clear: under Kenny Brooks, Lexington is becoming a must-stop for the nation’s top recruits.