Kentucky Wildcats fans are anxiously waiting for Malachi Moreno’s NBA Draft decision, and now one of the most trusted voices around the program believes Big Blue Nation could be getting very good news.
With the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline rapidly approaching, speculation continues to grow about whether Moreno will remain in the draft or return to Lexington for another season under Mark Pope. While there’s still believed to be interest from NBA teams — including possible first-round conversations — momentum has started to swing back toward a return to Kentucky.
Adding even more optimism for BBN was a recent prediction from longtime Kentucky radio voice Tom Leach.
During an appearance on BBN Tonight, Leach said he still believes Moreno ultimately ends up back in blue and white next season.
“I’m still where I have always been. I always thought he would be back at Kentucky next season,” Leach said. “I think that makes the most sense, and I continue to feel that way. So hope I’m right.”
That statement immediately caught the attention of Kentucky fans, especially with uncertainty surrounding the Wildcats’ frontcourt entering next season. Moreno returning would be a massive boost for Mark Pope’s roster, giving Kentucky another experienced, high-level big man capable of anchoring the paint on both ends of the floor.
The Georgetown native showed flashes of major potential throughout his freshman season and remains one of the most intriguing young centers connected to the 2026 NBA Draft class. However, many around college basketball believe another year at Kentucky could significantly improve his draft stock and development.
Moreno isn’t the only name BBN is watching closely. Milan Momcilovic’s draft status also remains a major storyline, with several NBA executives recently suggesting both players would benefit from returning to college basketball for another season.
If Kentucky manages to bring both Moreno and Momcilovic back, it would completely reshape expectations for the Wildcats heading into next year and could give Mark Pope one of the most dangerous rosters in the country.
For now, all eyes remain on the withdrawal deadline — but Tom Leach’s prediction is definitely music to the ears of Kentucky fans hoping Moreno’s story in Lexington isn’t finished yet.
