Kahlil Whitney’s Mother is Happy to See her Son Living Out his Dream
While John Calipari and his Wildcats were focused on getting off to a strong start in the Bahamas, pieces to the 2019 recruiting class were falling into place back home.
Five-star forward Kahlil Whitney announced his commitment to Kentucky on Wednesday. After speaking with his mother, Chanel Tillmon, Whitney informed Calipari that he was coming before the conclusion of his official visit last Sunday.
Related: Whitney Announced his Commitment to Kentucky
“He has always wanted to attend Kentucky,” said Tillmon. “I truly believe his mind was made up the minute he was offered the scholarship. I believe he told Coach Cal on Sunday, which was the last day of our official visit.”
Whitney, a 6-foot-6 forward from Chicago, IL., is rated the No. 19 overall player in the 2019 class, according to the 247 Sports Composite. He joins five-star guard Tyrese Maxey and four-star wing Dontaie Allen as members of the Wildcats 2019 recruiting class.
During Whitney’s official visit to Kentucky last weekend, John Calipari had him watch a practice. He did the same thing with Dontaie Allen, as he wants guys to see if they can handle the intensity and competition.
“Coach Cal’s message to Kahlil was you have to want to be here and work hard no matter what. The practice was intense.”
If you follow Whitney on Twitter, you will notice his Twitter name is “The Dragon.” The name originated from his father, who wanted him to play like one on the court.
“The Dragon was something his dad came up with. He hollers it out at his games, “Be a Dragon”, and somehow it works every time.”
Kentucky’s 2019 recruiting class is shaping up to be another stellar group for Calipari. The class only had one member last week after four-star forward D.J. Jeffries backed out of his verbal commitment. Calipari responded by adding two great wings. As for his mother, she’s just happy that her son is getting the opportunity to live out his dream.
“I am ecstatic right about now. Anytime my kid is happy, I’m even happier. Blessed beyond measures.”
