Kentucky’s Jaland Lowe isn’t afraid to speak his mind — and this time, he’s putting the entire college basketball world on notice. As the Wildcats gear up for the new season, Lowe is confident that what’s brewing in Lexington is something special.
“I think we’re the best backcourt in the country, for sure,” Lowe said. “I feel like the pieces that we have, we can compete and win at the utmost level. I’m loving this group.”
That “group” Lowe is talking about isn’t just talented — it’s loaded. Alongside Lowe, Kentucky boasts a backcourt that features explosive playmakers like Otega Oweh, whose slashing ability makes him a constant scoring threat, and Braydon Hawthorne, a freshman with length and shooting range that can stretch any defense. Denzel Aberdeen brings high-level court vision and poise, while Trent Noah offers a steady scoring punch and experience.
And it’s not just the guards making waves. The Wildcats’ overall roster is balanced and deep, with Brandon Garrison anchoring the paint, Jayden Quaintance bringing youthful athleticism at just 18 years old, and big men like Reece Potter and Andrija Jelavic adding size and versatility. Mo Dioubate brings grit and energy, a player who can impact the game without needing the ball in his hands.
Coach Mark Pope’s system has unleashed the full potential of this roster, blending speed, toughness, and unselfish play. The guards are pushing the tempo, the bigs are protecting the rim, and everyone is buying into the defensive intensity. It’s a mix that’s already making Kentucky’s summer practices some of the most competitive in years.
Big Blue Nation is feeling the buzz, and Lowe’s words have only added fuel to the fire. If this backcourt continues to gel — with Lowe, Oweh, Hawthorne, Aberdeen, and Noah leading the charge — Kentucky won’t just be fun to watch. They’ll be a nightmare for every opponent that steps on the court with them.
For Lowe, the confidence isn’t just talk. “When I look around at the guys in this locker room, I know we have what it takes,” he said. “We’re ready to prove it.”
