Mark Pope’s second Kentucky Transfer Portal class has taken shape with some exciting new faces and even more fascinating backstories. With the 2025-26 Kentucky basketball team now largely determined, this new group of players promises to add depth and talent to the Wildcats’ roster.
Denzel Aberdeen, who committed to Kentucky this offseason, has an intriguing family quirk: his father refuses to watch games live. Instead, Ian Aberdeen watches on DVR, as he finds real-time games too stressful. This was evident during the 2024 SEC Tournament, when Denzel only played for 19 seconds against Georgia. Later, Ian found out through his DVR that Denzel had scored 20 points off the bench in an SEC Tournament Semifinal win over Texas A&M, a moment of unexpected triumph.
Jaland Lowe, another key addition, has an NBA connection through his famous godfather, John Lucas II. A No. 1 overall NBA pick in 1976, Lucas II was an All-American in basketball and tennis at Maryland and a 14-year NBA veteran. His career was almost derailed by substance abuse, but he overcame those challenges and became a mentor for athletes in similar situations.
Kam Williams, a transfer from Tulane, hails from Lafayette, Louisiana, and is set to become only the fourth player from Louisiana to play for Kentucky. The other three Louisiana natives who suited up for the Wildcats—Cotton Nash, Rick Robey, and Williams—are all legends in Kentucky basketball history.
In terms of championship pedigree, Mouhamed Dioubate brings a National Championship background to the Wildcats. Before transferring to Kentucky from Alabama, Dioubate was named MVP of the National Prep Championship, leading Putnam Science Academy to the title. This prestigious win adds to Kentucky’s growing list of players with notable accomplishments.
Finally, Jayden Quaintance, known for his exceptional rebounding and interior defense, follows in his father Haminn Quaintance’s footsteps. Haminn, a two-time All-Atlantic Sun player at Jacksonville State and a MAC Defensive Player of the Year at Kent State, set a high bar for his son, who will bring his own skills to the Wildcats’ frontcourt.
These fun facts showcase the rich history and potential that Mark Pope’s latest transfer class brings to Kentucky, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.
