Samantha Drake, a sophomore-to-be from Nelson County, became the first player to commit to the Kentucky women's basketball team in the Matthew Mitchell coaching era yesterday.

Drake, a 6-foot-21/2 center-forward, averaged 22.5 points and 11 rebounds as a freshman.

When asked why she made her college choice while still having three high school seasons to play, Drake noted the desire to set recruiting aside.

"I could concentrate on basketball and my work in school," she said. "I can lay low for a while."

Drake became familiar with UK this summer when her team participated in a camp. She had been considering Tennessee, Louisville and Purdue.

Apparently, she was set up to be the youngest UK recruit in any sport until Euton committed.

 

Talked to her yesterday, and I look forward to seeing more of her game …

Congrats to Drake, she is the real deal!

Quality family.....another Drake going to UK. Congrats to Samantha.