Kentucky head coach Mark Pope is excited about the roster he’s built for the 2025–26 season, featuring 10 new additions: six from the transfer portal, three high school recruits, and one international player. Combined with returners like Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Trent Noah, and potentially Otega Oweh (if he withdraws from the NBA Draft by May 28), Pope believes this team has the makings of something special.
In a segment with Michelle Knezovic, Pope offered 30-second scouting reports on each newcomer:
- Braydon Hawthorne: A 6-9 player with a 7-3 wingspan and growing; he can shoot, handle the ball, and make smart decisions.
- Jasper Johnson: A dynamic scorer from high school, known for his ability to create his shot and his Kentucky pride.
- Malachi Moreno: A 7-1 center praised for his character and rising draft stock.
- Reece Potter: A Lexington native with strong skills and a love for the program.
- Denzel Aberdeen: A selfless winner from a military family, willing to sacrifice for the team.
- Andrija Jelavic: A 6-10 versatile European forward with strong shooting and playmaking skills.
- Jayden Quaintance: Only 17, he’s a dominant big man who averaged a double-double in the Big 12 last year.
- Mo Dioubate: An undersized but gritty power player, effective in ball screens and offensive rebounding.
- Jaland Lowe: A crafty point guard and elite facilitator who can control the floor.
- Kam Williams: A long-range sharpshooter with NBA-level range and toughness.
Pope highlighted not just their skills but their personalities, emphasizing team-first mentalities and high character. He expressed deep enthusiasm for the group’s potential and competitive spirit, believing they’re built for a strong postseason run that Big Blue Nation craves.
The article also briefly touches on other Kentucky sports headlines, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Karl-Anthony Towns being named All-NBA, and Jared Lorenzen’s son receiving his first Division I football offer. Pope’s coaching direction includes correcting past mistakes, such as a lack of three-point shooting, as he enters his second year aiming to fully embrace and elevate the Kentucky basketball culture.
