If you thought Kenny Brooks was going to take a victory lap after landing three McDonald's All-Americans in the 2026 class, you clearly don't know Kenny Brooks. The man is busy trying to build a dynasty, and he has zero intention of slowing down.
While Mark Pope grabs headlines hosting the No. 1 prospect (CJ Rosser) tonight at Rupp Arena, the women's program is countering with a massive haymaker of its own. When the Lady Cats host Vanderbilt this Thursday night at Historic Memorial Coliseum, they will have Sara Okeke, the top uncommitted prospect in the entire 2026 class, sitting courtside.
Sara Okeke has unmatched talent
Okeke isn't just a highly ranked recruit; she is a physical force of nature. A 6-foot-4 center from Spain, she currently plays at DME Academy in Florida (the same powerhouse prep school that produced current Wildcat Dominika Paurová).
ESPN recently broke down exactly why she is the most coveted player left on the board, and the scouting report is terrifying for opponents:
"Murmurs about Okeke's play began this summer after an MVP performance at the FIBA U18 Women's EuroBasket... Okeke's physicality is unmatched in the 2026 class. At 6-4, her combination of length, agility, and instinct can't be taught... she's an imposing paint presence who finishes well with both hands."
The stats back it up
Okeke averaged 13.8 points and 7.1 rebounds while shooting 57% during her MVP run in Europe. Since coming to the States, she has only gotten better, currently averaging 17 points and 7 rebounds while shooting nearly 70% from the field in high school.
The Kenny Brooks effect
This visit is just further proof that Kentucky Women's Basketball is operating at a completely different altitude under Brooks. Most coaches would be satisfied with the class he already has. Brooks is looking at the top uncommitted player on the board and asking, "Why not her, too?"
Thursday night is a big game against Vanderbilt, but the biggest win might happen in the recruiting section. Keep it up, Kenny.