It’s no longer just speculation—Kentucky is making serious moves in the 2025 transfer portal, and the Wildcats’ latest haul may be their strongest in years. After a rollercoaster 2024 season that left fans hungry for a return to dominance, both the basketball and football programs have made aggressive portal pushes that could change everything. Could 2025 be the year Kentucky breaks through?
Let’s break it down by sport.
Basketball: Mark Pope Is Building a Contender
New head coach Mark Pope has wasted no time putting his stamp on the program. His mission? Build a roster with experience, grit, and high-level versatility. The early results are impressive—Kentucky’s transfer class is already drawing national praise, and with good reason.
Meet the New Wildcats:
Denzel Aberdeen (Florida): A proven SEC combo guard who brings scoring, leadership, and one year of eligibility.
Kam Williams (Tulane): A 6’8″ wing with length and floor spacing ability, Williams has three years left to develop in Lexington.
Jaland Lowe (Pittsburgh): A smart, steady point guard with two years of eligibility, Lowe offers strong court vision and control.
Mouhamed Dioubate (Alabama): A high-motor forward known for his defense and rebounding.
Jayden Quaintance (Arizona State): A versatile 6’9″ forward/center with elite upside and three years left—an immediate impact player.
These additions push Kentucky into the national conversation, and early projections already place them in the top tier of college basketball. ESPN’s latest bracketology ranks them as a potential No. 2 seed, signaling a fast rebuild under Pope’s leadership.
Departures:
Kerr Kriisa (to Cincinnati), Grant Darbyshire, Walker Horn, and Travis Perry have entered the portal or are exploring options.
Several players—Otega Oweh, Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler, Trent Noah, and Perry—are still deciding between returning, transferring, or entering the NBA Draft.
Still on the Radar: Kentucky is keeping tabs on several high-upside targets, including:
Kimani Hamilton (High Point)
Cade Tyson (North Carolina)
Jamir Watkins (Florida State)
Ryan Forrest (North Carolina A&T)
One major target, Rylan Griffen (Kansas), recently canceled his visit, suggesting Kentucky may now be focusing elsewhere.
