Kentucky gets a recruit for 2012 in a business decision?

John Calipari is finally on the board in the Class of 2012.

Archie Goodwin, the No. 8 player in our Consensus Recruiting Rankings, announced last night that he will be headed to Lexington to play for the University of Kentucky. A 6'5" wing, the Arkansas native is quick and powerful when going to the basket, capable of finishing above the rim with authority. He'll only get better as he continues to develop his mid-range game and his perimeter jumper. He's also extremely competitive and a winner, which are traits that are almost as important in a prospect as their vertical and their wingspan.

Goodwin, who picked Kentucky over Arkansas and Memphis, is a perfect fit for Coach Cal's dribble-drive motion offense thanks to his ability to slash to the basket.


More importantly, however, is that Goodwin is the first commitment for Kentucky in the Class of 2012. Who will follow? The Wildcats are, as always, in the mix for a number of high profile recruits, including the likes of Shabazz Muhammad, Mitch McGary, Kaleb Tarczewski and DaJuan Coleman. Many of their targets will be on campus for Big Blue Madness, but will Goodwin's commitment be the spark needed to start getting some of these players to commit to the Wildcats?

My favorite part about Goodwin's commitment is this quote that Dave Telep tweeted out last night: "I love my state but it’s a business decision and this is best for my career and my family."

A business decision? Is that right, Archie? Is that an unfortunate choice of words or, finally, a moment of clarity? Whatever the case, given Coach Cal's track record and the rumor and innuendo that surrounds his recruiting successes, that quote is too funny.


As always, here's why UK fans should be excited about Goodwin: