Kentucky fans might want to remember this name: Malachi Moreno. Because if summer practices are any indication, the 7-foot freshman is gearing up to become the next big thing in Big Blue Nation.
A recent practice clip of Moreno is spreading fast — and for good reason. In just a few seconds of footage, fans saw shot-blocking, rebounding, rim-running, and even a smooth turnaround jumper. That’s not just size — that’s skill, and it’s got BBN buzzing.
> “This kid’s a PROBLEM.”
“Best hands I’ve seen on a Kentucky big in years.”
“He’s not just tall — he knows how to HOOP.”
Dominating Both Ends
At 7-feet tall with a strong frame and surprising agility, Moreno is wreaking havoc in practice. Coaches have praised his ability to protect the rim without fouling, move his feet on switches, and run the floor like a seasoned vet.
> “He’s ahead of schedule,” one UK assistant coach said.
“He picks things up fast, and he WANTS to get better.”
In one scrimmage, Moreno reportedly recorded five blocks, eight rebounds, and two putback dunks — in under 15 minutes of play. And it wasn’t just the stats… it was the presence. Opponents were second-guessing every shot near the paint.
BBN Fans Are Obsessed
On Twitter, Instagram, and message boards, the hype is building fast:
“He moves like a pro already.”
“We’ve been waiting for a big like this since Oscar — and we might have found him.”
“You can’t teach 7 feet. But you also can’t teach instincts like his.”
Moreno’s highlights are racking up views, but more importantly, he’s winning over fans with how hard he plays — diving on the floor, fighting for rebounds, and showing zero fear against older teammates.
High IQ + High Motor = High Ceiling
It’s not just about physical tools. According to coaches, Moreno’s basketball IQ is advanced for his age. He reads pick-and-rolls like a veteran, communicates on defense, and rarely makes the same mistake twice.
He’s already showing flashes of being more than just a rim protector. In practice, he’s knocked down mid-range jumpers, passed out of double teams, and even shown patience in the post.
> “He’s going to be a real asset. He plays the right way — and he’s hungry,” said one observer.
What’s Next?
With Mo Dioubate and Brandon Garrison ahead of him in the frontcourt rotation, Moreno doesn’t have to carry the load early. But don’t be shocked if he forces his way into meaningful minutes as the season progresses.
This staff believes in developing talent — and Moreno is proving every day that he’s ready to rise.
So go ahead, hit replay on that practice tape. Because if you blink, you might miss the rise of Kentucky’s next great big man.
He’s here. And BBN knows it.
