Kentucky’s 5‑Star Guard Target, Caleb Holt, Moves Official Visit Back One Week
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky’s pursuit of elite 2026 shooting guard Caleb Holt received a scheduling adjustment this week, as Holt and his family confirmed they’ve rescheduled his official visit to Lexington. Originally slated for the weekend of September 5–7, the trip has been shifted to September 12–14 due to a personal scheduling conflict, according to Holt’s father ([SI][1]).
Standing 6‑foot‑5 and weighing around 200 pounds, Holt is widely regarded as one of the nation’s top prospects, ranked No. 7 overall by On3 and in the top‑10 consensus nationally ([A Sea Of Blue][2]). A dynamic combo guard from Prolific Prep (FL), who previously starred at Buckhorn and Grayson High Schools, he holds five-star status across major recruiting services ([Wikipedia][3]).
### A Busy Fall on the Recruiting Trail
This will not be Holt’s first official trip — earlier this year, he visited Ole Miss during Easter weekend ([SI][4]). Additional official visits are scheduled: Alabama from October 3–5 and Auburn from October 10–12 ([On3][5]). Holt’s father indicated that following these visits, they plan to begin reducing the list of finalists between mid‑September and early October ([On3][5]).
Taking an in‑home visit with Kentucky earlier this year, Holt’s father praised coach Mark Pope and staff, highlighting their frequent communication and meaningful engagement both in-person and during Holt’s participation in USA Basketball events ([yardbarker.com][6]). Intense text and Zoom exchanges have built rapport — especially since Pope coached Holt during USA U19 training camp ([yardbarker.com][6]).
> “We’ve had great conversations … they made a home visit back in the spring and we talk to them a couple times a week,” said Holt’s father ([yardbarker.com][6]).
> “Coach Pope was my on‑court coach at USA … Kentucky is definitely in the mix, high up. I mess with Mark Pope and everything,” Caleb added ([On3][5]).
### Pride in Position, Passion for Fit
A product of Buckhorn (AL) and later Grayson High (GA), Holt earned Alabama Mr. Basketball honors and multiple state titles during his high school career. After transferring to Prolific Prep this summer, he continues to draw national attention ([Wikipedia][3]).
Despite his southern roots, Holt seems drawn to the Wildcats’ fast‑paced offense — something he shares with programs like Alabama that interest him — while Kentucky offers the allure of national championship aspirations and superior player development ([SI][4], [yardbarker.com][6]).
### Kentucky’s Momentum
Holt’s shifting schedule presents a crucial chance for Kentucky to solidify its standing among his finalists. The Wildcats have been proactive: Pope and staff have conducted multiple visits, extending Holt an offer in July 2024 and maintaining steady touchpoints ever since ([A Sea Of Blue][7]).
Win or lose, Holt’s timeline suggests his decision will be finalized after the fall slate, likely by January or February following the season opener ([On3][5], [SI][4]). For the Big Blue Nation, the rescheduled weekend of September 12–14 is far more than a calendar tweak. It’s a key — perhaps pivotal — weekend in Kentucky’s 2026 recruiting chase.