Houston added power forward Triston Hawthorne to its 2027 recruiting class with his commitment on Sept. 17. The four-star prospect is one of four Houston recruits in the class ranked among the nation’s top 100 by 247Sports, which currently lists the Cougars’ group as the No. 1 class overall.
Hawthorne is listed at 6 feet 7 inches and 190 pounds. The South Jones High School player from Ellisville, Mississippi, is ranked as the state’s top prospect by 247Sports, the No. 15 power forward in the 247 Composite rankings and No. 80 nationally in the 2027 class.
Houston was one of three Power Four programs to offer Hawthorne, along with Ole Miss and Mississippi State. He visited Houston on Aug. 20, followed by visits to LSU on Sept. 5 and Harvard on Sept. 8.
As a high school player, Hawthorne averaged 10.8 rebounds and four offensive rebounds per game, along with 4.3 blocks. His 7-foot-2 wingspan and athleticism are part of his defensive profile, while his production near the basket makes him a potential interior contributor for Houston.
Hawthorne remains less developed offensively, according to the report, but has been effective around the rim and in the dunker’s spot. Most of his attempts have come in the paint, and he has made about 60% of his free throws.
