The Kentucky Wildcats have added Jonathan Reed to its list of commitments for the class of 2012, a list that already includes eight players.
Reed, a 5’10”, 178-pound cornerback from Indianapolis, Indiana, chose Kentucky late last night. Reed was being recruited by many programs of different stature, but decided Kentucky was the right place for him.
“I committed last night around 10 o’clock. I really feel like Kentucky is awesome because it’s really not too far from my house, and [the SEC] is also the best conference in America. There is always good competition every game, and the exposure is good.
“I like the coaching staff mainly–that’s really what got me. They are really down to earth, and they are more friendly. There are great coaches and all, but the Kentucky coaches will sit down and talk to you instead of always barking at you.”
Reed was very excited to finally commit to Kentucky, and feels as if his choice was the best one possible.
“I feel great. It was awesome to make the commitment, and I feel like I am on top of the world right now!”
So what sticks out to Reed about Kentucky?
“I love the town. It’s a quiet town–not too quite–and it’s a great college town. You get to see a lot of great areas, they have a great stadium, and they have a lot going for them. I’m excited because they have a great recruiting class coming in, and I’m excited to start playing with those guys.”
It wasn’t just the coaches, town, and facilities that helped drive Reed to Kentucky. 2011 basketball commit Marquis Teague was also influential in Reed’s commitment. Reed and Teague are good friends and often talked about Kentucky.
“He definitely helped me out. He told me the school was good and told me what he likes about it, then I told him what I like about it. He’s a good guy and it’s just cool we are both going to Kentucky.”
As a cornerback in the SEC, you have to have superb abilities. Reed believes he has those abilities that will help him succeed, but still knows he will need some teaching to get better along the way.
“I think I bring great speed, awareness, and ability to make tackles. I’ll be learning a lot. I have to learn how to play smart and not just use my athleticism as I could in high school. I’m excited to learn a lot and tweak my abilities, learn game strategies, and be the best I can be.”
Reed took two visits to Kentucky’s campus during his recruitment. His first visit was on Junior Day, which he enjoyed.
“We got to see all the facilities and all the study areas. I thought it was really nice. Everything was new, and that’s what stood out to me. Nothing was outdated, and you could tell it was a great up-and-coming school.”
His second visit was a camp day, where he was able to show the coaches his talents. But, he was also able to spend more time with the coaches he had been building a strong relationship with prior to the camp.
“I got to bond with the coaches a lot more. I had already been talking to them on the phone a lot, then I was able to see them again and got to workout in front of them for a change.”
Reed isn’t done making trips down Kentucky, though. He plans on attending many football games next season.
“I will try to get to a lot of the home games and maybe a couple away games. I will try to get to some of the games–you better believe that!”
Reed also emphasized that he is solid on his commitment to UK, stating that he does not plan on making any more visits at this time, unless it’s to Kentucky.
“As of right now, my recruitment is over. I am a Wildcat and nothing else.”
