Chapter 1: The 7-Foot Dreamer Who Refuses to Be Average
Malachi Moreno isn’t just another tall kid from Kentucky — he’s a once-in-a-generation big man who’s ready to redefine what it means to wear blue and white.
The former Great Crossing star, named Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball after a dominant senior season, is now facing a whole new world of pressure and potential. The 7-footer dominated high school competition, but college is different — especially when your new teammates are just as tall and a whole lot stronger.
“It’s been a learning experience — a humbling one,” Moreno admits after a recent practice session at the University of Kentucky. “I’m going up against guys who push me every day. I’ve got to be stronger. I’ve got to be smarter. I have to learn how to use my body.”
But don’t mistake humility for hesitation. Moreno is locked in.
“Whether I play five minutes or 25 minutes, I just want to win number nine,” he says with a laser focus. “That’s my only goal.”
From studying Kevin Durant to soaking up tips from veteran teammate Brandon Garrison, Moreno knows what’s at stake — and he knows it won’t come easy. “It’s a pressure cooker,” he says. “But I love it. I’m built for this.”
And with deep Kentucky roots and a family history of basketball (his older brother starred at Eastern Kentucky), Moreno sees this moment not just as a chance to grow — but as destiny. “God put me on this path. If he brought me here, I believe he’ll help me through it.”
Chapter 2: He Said Yes Without Asking — Meet UK’s Emotional Newcomer from Croatia
When Mark Pope called, Andrija Jelavic didn’t hesitate — he said yes before hearing the details.
Let that sink in.
In an era where players often deliberate for weeks, consult agents, weigh NIL deals and analyze depth charts, the 6-foot-11 Croatian phenom made a life-changing decision in minutes.
“I had just played one of my best games. My agent told me Kentucky was interested,” Jelavic recalls. “Then Coach Pope called. The moment he said he wanted me — I was in. We didn’t even talk about offers. I told my agent, ‘Tell him I’m committing.’ It was that simple.”
For Jelavic, who played professionally for Mega Superbet in the Adriatic League, the allure of Kentucky wasn’t just about basketball. It was about legacy.
“In Croatia, everyone knows Kentucky. It’s a big name, a big brand. When I heard Coach Pope’s voice, I felt something. I knew he believed in me.”
At 21, Jelavic brings maturity, physicality, and a pro-ready skillset to Lexington. “He just gets it,” said TV host Keith Farmer. “He’s grounded, articulate, and already understands what being a Wildcat means. He didn’t just join the team — he embraced the culture.”
Now, with the season approaching, all eyes are on whether this emotional recruit can translate his passion into production.
Chapter 3: Josh Kattus — Kentucky’s Heart and Hammer
Most tight ends catch passes. Josh Kattus is catching hearts.
Already the team’s leading receiver this season, the senior has racked up 112 yards and a touchdown in just three games — but it’s what he does off the field that’s turning heads nationwide.
Kattus was just named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, one of only 11 players across the entire NCAA FBS to receive the honor. Why? Because he’s making an impact that goes far beyond the gridiron.
He’s volunteered for “Dancing with the Lexington Stars” — stepping way out of his comfort zone to raise money for local charities. He gives time to Kentucky Children’s Hospital every week. He’s been active at the Ronald McDonald House, the Scott County Humane Society, and even ran a shoe drive for kids with special needs.
“I just want to give back,” Kattus said. “We’re blessed with this platform. And we have four years to make a real difference.”
And don’t think he’s all soft
