For Jayden Hodge, basketball is the family business. But when it comes to choosing his college destination, he’s making it clear that blood ties won’t dictate his future. His brother, Matthew, plays at Villanova under head coach Kevin Willard, yet Jayden insists family loyalty won’t override what feels right for his own career.
How Will Kevin Willard’s Coaching Style Influence Jayden Hodge’s Decision?
Hodge recently announced that he will spend his senior season at the prestigious Montverde Academy, a school known for producing elite basketball talent. This move aligns with his goal to face top competition every day and further refine his skills ahead of college basketball recruitment.
Regarding Villanova, Hodge explained, “Things have been alright. My brother is there, but that won’t make an impact on my decision to go to Villanova. I’m going somewhere I feel like I have a good connection with the coaching staff, I feel like I really want to be. Obviously, my brother is there, but that won’t have an impact.”
The relationship Hodge builds with Willard will be crucial in his recruitment process. Willard, who was named Villanova’s head coach in March 2025, has a proven track record of success, including 335 wins over 18 seasons and seven NCAA Tournament appearances.
When asked about his connection with Willard, Hodge praised the new coach.
“I haven’t really talked to my brother about that. I went on a few unofficial visits to see some practices for my brother, but I think we’re still kind of building that relationship with coach Willard. He called me a couple days ago, so that was really the first time I had that call. So we’re still kind of building a relationship there. But he’s a great coach. He’s done some good things at Maryland. I’m excited to see how they’re going to be.”
4 ⭐️ Jayden Hodge was excellent in his morning contest, dropping 20 on an efficient 9-13 shooting 🫡 pic.twitter.com/3FY7VJz15F
— League Ready (@LeagueRDY) June 13, 2025
Willard comes to Villanova with fresh momentum from his success at Maryland. During the 2024-25 season, he led the University of Maryland to 27 wins, a Top 25 national ranking, and a Sweet Sixteen appearance. His efforts, which included revitalizing Maryland’s program over three seasons, earned him the NABC East District Coach of the Year award.
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Before his time at Maryland, Willard spent 12 successful years at Seton Hall, where he accumulated 225 wins and captured the 2016 Big East Tournament title. That championship came after defeating a Villanova team that would go on to win the NCAA championship. His track record of building winning programs and developing talent makes him a compelling figure as Hodge weighs his options.
What Role Will Family Legacy Play in Hodge’s Final Choice?
Basketball runs deep in the Hodge family tree. His brother Matthew plays for Villanova under Willard, while his father Odell Hodge enjoyed a successful collegiate career at Old Dominion before professionally taking his talents overseas. Despite this strong family connection to Villanova, Jayden remains focused on finding the right fit for his own journey.
As Hodge continues building his relationship with Villanova’s coaching staff, particularly Willard, he’s hoping to make the best decision for his basketball future. His upcoming senior year at Montverde Academy will provide daily opportunities to compete against top-tier talent and continue developing his game.
His international experience with Belgium at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket will also serve as valuable preparation for the next level. With deep family roots in basketball and a developing connection to Villanova, Jayden Hodge remains one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2026 recruiting class.
