Jasper Johnson played a significant role in Jayden Quaintance’s decision to commit to Kentucky. The two were former teammates on the Nike EYBL circuit, where they played together for Team Thad in 2023. Quaintance later moved on to Team Loaded for the Adidas 3SSB championships and eventually made the decision to reclassify to the 2024 class, ensuring him two years of college basketball before entering the 2026 NBA Draft. Quaintance finished his high school career at Word of God Christian Academy, while Johnson played at Link Academy.
After a season at Arizona State, Quaintance entered the transfer portal and chose to rejoin Johnson at Kentucky, citing the close relationship they developed during their AAU days. Quaintance credited Johnson for being a key influence in his recruitment to Kentucky, saying Johnson spoke highly of the environment, fans, coaching staff, and how Quaintance would fit into the team’s system. Johnson not only spoke positively about Kentucky, but he actively helped to connect Quaintance with coaches and supported him in his decision-making process.
In an interview with KSR, Quaintance further confirmed Johnson’s instrumental role in his recruitment, adding that the two had a strong bond from their time on Team Thad. He also mentioned Malachi Moreno, another Kentucky player, who helped with the recruiting process, reinforcing the sense of teamwork and camaraderie in Kentucky’s locker room.
Although Quaintance had not yet built strong relationships with other portal additions like Jaland Lowe, Kam Williams, and Mo Dioubate, he had prior connections with incoming freshmen, including Jasper and Malachi. Quaintance expressed excitement about meeting his new teammates when he arrives on campus.
This move marks a full-circle moment for Johnson and Quaintance, who reunite as Kentucky teammates after their success on the AAU circuit, strengthening Kentucky’s roster for the 2025-26 season.
