Savvy Swords: Canada’s Rising Star and Kentucky Wildcat
Standing at 6’2, Savannah(Savvy) Swords has already established herself as one of Canada’s top basketball prospects. A versatile forward, she can score inside with strength and step out to stretch the floor with confidence. Recently, she committed to the University of Kentucky, a decision that has both fans and scouts buzzing about her ability to make an immediate impact in the NCAA.
A Basketball Family
Savvy comes from a household built on basketball excellence. Her father, Shawn Swords, represented Canada on the international stage and now serves as the head coach of Laurentian University’s men’s basketball program. Her mother has been a steady presence in her development, providing balance and support along the way. Meanwhile, her older sister Syla Swords is already making waves in the NCAA, playing for the Michigan Wolverines in the Big Ten Conference.
Growing up in this environment gave Savvy a strong foundation. As her longtime AAU coach Richard Nurse (Kia Nurse Elite) explained:
“Environment plays a role because at the end of the day, the expectations are set high. When you come from an athletic family, the parents know the path you need to go through. The pathway is already set, and it allows you to understand the process. With role models in place, you have the chance to ask the right questions and learn from experience.”
This combination of family influence and personal accountability has allowed Savvy to grow into one of Canada’s brightest stars.
Early Development and Growth
Savvy’s rise began in earnest with Kia Nurse Elite, where she trained under Richard Nurse from grade 7 onward. Nurse quickly recognized her competitive edge and her drive to push herself beyond her peers. “She shows up, she works hard, she loves to compete, and she wants to be the best,” Nurse said.
By grade 9, she had clearly separated herself as a next-level prospect, dominating in both Canadian and U.S. competition and proving she could perform under pressure.
Strengths and Scouting Report
On the floor, Savvy projects as a 3/4 hybrid forward—long, athletic, and skilled enough to impact both ends of the court. She defends multiple positions, rebounds aggressively, and scores in a variety of ways. She has a natural feel for the game, and when the moment is biggest, she rises to the occasion.
One example came in the summer of 2024, when Savvy took over a game in Iowa against Tennessee Flight Academy. In less than three minutes, she flipped a six-point deficit into an eight-point lead with a putback, back-to-back threes, and a key steal. “She just took over the game,” Nurse recalled.
This ability to dominate stretches of play is what makes her such an intriguing prospect at the next level.
Kentucky and Beyond
Savvy’s decision to join Kentucky is viewed as a perfect fit for her skill set and mentality. With Head Coach Kenny Brooks and his staff known for developing elite talent and empowering players, the stage is set for Savvy to contribute right away.
Nurse believes the move sets her on the right trajectory: “Kentucky is a great choice—Coach Brooks is phenomenal and really cares for his players.”
Looking Ahead
For Canadian basketball, Savvy’s story is bigger than one commitment. She embodies the momentum of a new generation of athletes breaking barriers and redefining expectations. As her journey continues, from Kentucky to what many believe will be a professional career, she has the chance to become not only one of Canada’s brightest stars, but also a role model for the next wave of young athletes chasing their dreams.
“This is the beauty of Canadian basketball,” Nurse said. “We’re talking about a kid who is gonna be pro. She is going to be one of the kids that lead the charge.”
