Reminder: Billy Richmond is a Cat

It’s easy to get caught up in the hype of Kentucky‘s rivalry win over Louisville and just how good the current Cats look, but let’s not forget the future is bright, too. And it got a whole lot brighter ahead of tip-off inside the Yum! Center on Thursday, as ’24 four-star wing Billy Richmond announced his long-awaited commitment.

It’s one that has been expected for the Wildcats, but that doesn’t make it any less significant. A defense-first wing with length and athleticism, the kid can go and is a perfect complementary piece alongside the program’s other signees.

Richmond’s addition is welcomed and should be celebrated again — because why not?

“Today isn’t about me. It’s about all of the hours in the gym, the work that nobody saw to get me here,” Richmond said in his commitment video. “It’s about doing it for my friends, family, coaches, trainers and everyone who believed in me along the way. Today is about leaving a legacy. From Memphis, to the circuit, to the High, today is about the future and what’s next.

“Thank you to all of the coaches who recruited me, it’s been a long journey. But I’ve made my decision. BBN, what’s good? Go Big Blue!”

BBN What’s up 💙🤍 #BBN pic.twitter.com/xLyYC7e0Um

— Billy (@BillyRichmondI) December 22, 2023

Kentucky unofficially announced his commitment shortly after his decision, John Calipari walking down his hall of accolades and past stars — Richmond drawing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Keldon Johnson comparisons — and closing with his patented wink.

#LaFamilia ➕1️⃣ pic.twitter.com/kYJSr0rbnX

— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) December 21, 2023

What are the Cats getting in the 6-6 wing? See for yourself with some of his recent highlights:

Welcome to the family, Billy Richmond.