With summer workouts ramping up in Lexington, Kentucky basketball fans were given an intriguing glimpse into how Mark Pope’s roster was divided for a recent five-on-five scrimmage. While these lineups don’t necessarily project the Wildcats’ eventual starting five, they offer an early look at how the coaching staff is evaluating chemistry, versatility, and competition ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The teams featured a healthy mix of experienced transfers, returning talent, and promising newcomers, creating what appeared to be two evenly matched groups.
Blue Team
PG: Alex Wilkins
SG: Jerone Morton
Wing: Zyon Hawthorne
PF: Ousmane N’Diaye
C: Malachi Moreno
White Team
PG: Zoom Diallo
SG: Mason Williams
SF: Braydon Hawthorne
PF: Milan Momcilovic
C: Reece Potter
The Blue Team boasts one of Kentucky’s most intriguing frontcourts with Ousmane N’Diaye and Malachi Moreno protecting the paint. Moreno is expected to take another major step after an impressive freshman campaign, while N’Diaye’s length and defensive presence have already earned praise during summer workouts. Alex Wilkins running the offense also gives the Blue Team a versatile playmaker capable of creating opportunities for teammates.
Meanwhile, the White Team brings plenty of offensive firepower. Zoom Diallo has emerged as one of the team’s vocal leaders throughout the summer and is widely expected to be a key piece of Kentucky’s backcourt. Milan Momcilovic is arguably the Wildcats’ most dangerous perimeter shooter, while Reece Potter provides size inside and Braydon Hawthorne adds athleticism on the wing.
One of the biggest storylines is how balanced these teams appear. Rather than stacking one side with all the projected starters, Pope seemingly split the roster to maximize competition. That’s been a consistent theme throughout his tenure—creating an environment where every possession must be earned.
Summer scrimmages are rarely about the final score. Instead, they’re an opportunity for the coaching staff to evaluate communication, defensive intensity, lineup combinations, and player development before the season begins.
Kentucky fans have already begun debating which group would come out on top if this matchup counted.
The Blue Team appears stronger defensively with Moreno and N’Diaye anchoring the interior, while the White Team may have the edge in perimeter scoring thanks to Diallo and Momcilovic.
As preseason practices continue, these scrimmages will likely evolve, with players earning bigger roles through consistent performances. If nothing else, this latest split serves as another reminder of the depth and competition Mark Pope has assembled in Lexington.
Which team are you taking—Blue Team or White Team? Let the debate begin.
