Portuguese center Clara Silva, standing at six-foot-seven, has made a significant change in her commitment, moving from Virginia Tech to Kentucky, as announced on Sunday. Silva, a highly sought-after international prospect in the 2024 class, had initially committed to Virginia Tech in September, choosing them over schools like Louisville, Tennessee, and Maryland. Her decision to join Kentucky comes after showcasing her skills both professionally with Unicaja Baloncesto in Malaga, Spain, where she averages 9.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, and on the Portuguese National Team, where she had impressive stats in the 2023 FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship.
Silva’s choice to join Kentucky aligns her with several others who have followed coach Kenny Brooks from Virginia Tech to Lexington. This includes standout players like All-American point guard Georgia Amoore, freshman center Clara Strack, junior college forward Amelia Hassett, and wing Lexi Blue. Additionally, highly regarded guard Imari Berry, currently on an official visit, is considering Kentucky among her final choices. Brooks, who has brought former Virginia Tech assistants Lindsey Hicks and Radvile Autukaite to his Kentucky staff, has a track record of success, having led Virginia Tech to significant achievements including a No. 1 seed and a Final Four appearance. Kentucky’s roster has seen changes, with five players entering the transfer portal, including leading scorer Ajae Petty and guard Maddie Scherr.
