Kentucky’s roster rebuild is still underway, and one of the biggest priorities for Mark Pope and his staff is revamping the frontcourt. With several departures leaving holes, the Wildcats are expected to lean heavily on the transfer portal to add size, depth, and versatility.
While Malachi Moreno is anticipated to return after testing the NBA Draft waters, Kentucky still needs a dependable backup center and multiple power forward options to round out the rotation
At the top of the wishlist is Syracuse transfer Donnie Freeman, who recently took a visit to Lexington. Freeman is drawing strong interest across the SEC, and if Pope can secure his commitment, he could become a major impact player in the paint for the Wildcats.
Another name emerging on Kentucky’s radar is Florida Atlantic transfer Devin Williams. The 6-foot-10 sophomore averaged 7.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game last season while shooting an efficient 51% from the field and 30.6% from beyond the arc.
Williams’ biggest strength is on the defensive end. He averaged 2.6 blocks per game, ranking among the top shot-blockers in the country. His athleticism and rim protection make him an appealing option as a backup to Moreno and a key presence in the paint.
Offensively, however, there’s still room for growth. While he has shown flashes of potential, consistency remains a concern. If Kentucky lands Williams, developing his offensive game will be a major focus for the coaching staff.
Reports indicate that Kentucky and Williams are set to meet virtually, and if that goes well, a campus visit could follow. Adding a player like Williams would give the Wildcats a defensive anchor and reliable rebounder who can play a supporting role offensively.
As Pope continues to reshape the roster, Williams is a name to keep a close eye on in the coming days, with more transfer portal moves expected as Kentucky builds toward next season.
