Five-star center commits to college after receiving a basketball offer from the UK. Which school did he choose?

The Lexington Herald-Leader reports that Chris Cenac Jr., a highly regarded five-star center in the 2025 college basketball recruiting class, has committed to the University of Houston. Standing at 6’10” and weighing 230 pounds, the versatile player hails from New Orleans and chose Houston over a shortlist of seven programs, including Kentucky, Arkansas, Auburn, Baylor, LSU, and Tennessee. His commitment bolsters Houston’s recruitment efforts, securing its position as the holder of the second-best 2025 class in the nation, behind only Duke.

Cenac, ranked No. 6 overall in the 2025 class and the top center, gained attention for his ability to guard multiple positions and his offensive versatility, including shooting from range and switching defensively on pick-and-rolls. His rise was solidified during standout performances at the NBPA Top 100 Camp in Orlando, where he earned MVP honors. Kentucky extended him a scholarship in June, and he later visited UK in September, where Coach Mark Pope emphasized the NBA-like playing style and development program offered in Lexington. Despite the strong pitch, Cenac ultimately chose Houston.

Cenac’s decision impacts Kentucky’s recruiting for the 2025 class, which already features three committed players: guards Acaden Lewis and Jasper Johnson and center Malachi Moreno. UK, currently ranked sixth in the national recruiting rankings, continues to target uncommitted five-star recruits, including Mikel Brown Jr., Brayden Burries, Nate Ament, Caleb Wilson, and four-star prospect Niko Bundalo. Caleb Wilson, in particular, is considered the most likely to join UK. Wilson, ranked No. 5 overall in the 2025 class, visited Kentucky in September and has consistently expressed interest in the program.

UK’s current roster situation also opens opportunities for further recruitment. Seven players on this year’s team will exhaust their NCAA eligibility by the end of the season, leaving ample room for incoming talent. Pope and his staff are balancing the need for veteran players with recruiting elite, one-and-done athletes who can make an immediate impact. Pope reiterated that developing NBA-level talent remains a key focus for the program.

Houston’s 2025 class now includes Cenac, five-star guards Kingston Flemings and Isiah Harwell, and three-star small forward Bryce Jackson. With the addition of Cenac, Houston has positioned itself as a powerhouse in this recruiting cycle. Meanwhile, Kentucky looks to strengthen its roster and maintain its recruiting momentum heading into the future.

For full details and insights, visit the Lexington Herald-Leader’s website.