Every season, Kentucky basketball seems to have one player who surprises everyone. The stars come in with the hype, but it’s often the overlooked names who end up making the biggest difference when it matters most. This year, that player may be Malachi Moreno.
The freshman big man arrived in Lexington viewed as a developmental piece — someone with size and upside but not necessarily expected to contribute right away. But if practice footage and insider reports are any indication, Moreno is quickly proving he belongs on the floor this season.
Moreno’s Breakout in Practice
What’s been most impressive about Moreno is how advanced his game already looks. He’s been finishing with soft touch around the rim, altering shots on defense, and holding his ground against older, more experienced teammates. For a freshman, that’s rare.
His shot-blocking instincts and rebounding presence have stood out in particular. Every possession he’s involved in seems to end with either a defensive stop or a second-chance opportunity for the Wildcats. That kind of impact is exactly what Mark Pope’s roster needs if it wants to compete deep into March.
Changing the Depth Conversation
At the start of the offseason, depth was one of the biggest concerns surrounding Kentucky. Could this team withstand injuries, foul trouble, and the grind of the SEC? Moreno’s emergence may have answered that question.
Alongside him, Jayden Quaintance has flashed elite athleticism for an 18-year-old, Mo Dioubate continues to bring relentless energy on the boards, and Denzel Aberdeen has given the backcourt much-needed steadiness. Even role players like Reece Potter and Braydon Hawthorne are pushing the rotation.
What was once a question mark is quickly becoming a strength.
Why Moreno Matters So Much
Kentucky has lacked a true rim protector in recent years — someone who can both control the paint defensively and score efficiently inside. Moreno looks like he could grow into that role. Even if he doesn’t start right away, his ability to come off the bench and change the game gives Pope a valuable option.
On a team full of shooters, slashers, and athletes, having a big who can protect the rim and rebound adds balance. Moreno’s presence could be the difference between Kentucky being good and being a legitimate contender.
