Mark Mitchell’s unexpected decision to return to Missouri has forced Kentucky Basketball into another roster decision, with Mark Pope and his staff now searching for the best possible way to use their remaining scholarship spot.
The Mitchell saga may have ended for Kentucky, but the Wildcats still have options.
After briefly committing to Kentucky, Mitchell ultimately decided to return to Missouri, where he played the previous two seasons. His departure leaves Pope with one important decision to make as the Wildcats look to complete their roster before the upcoming season.
Several players who were previously considered possibilities have already found new homes. Jaxon Kohler committed to BYU, while Keyshawn Hall landed at St. John’s. That leaves Kentucky looking at a smaller but still intriguing group of available transfers.
One of the most interesting names is Cade Tyson, a former Minnesota standout who has already experienced several twists in his college career.
Tyson began at Belmont, where he averaged 13.6 points as a freshman and improved to 16.2 points as a sophomore. He was also an outstanding three-point shooter, making more than 42% of his attempts from deep.
His move to North Carolina did not go as planned, but Tyson completely revived his career at Minnesota. He averaged 19.6 points and five rebounds per game while shooting 50% from the field and 41% from three-point range.
That shooting ability could make Tyson particularly appealing to Pope.
Kentucky could also use more physicality in the frontcourt, which makes Keba Keita another name to watch.
The former BYU center started every game during his final two seasons with the Cougars. He averaged 7.4 points and 7.9 rebounds as a junior before posting 6.2 points and 7.2 rebounds as a senior. He also averaged 1.8 blocks per game last season.
For a Kentucky roster built around length, athleticism and skill, Keita could provide a different kind of presence.
Then there is Mostapha El Moutaouakkil, a 6-foot-6 guard who averaged 19.5 points and 7.2 rebounds for Jacksonville State last season. He earned First Team All-Conference USA honors and could provide additional scoring depth.
Moe Odum is another possibility. The veteran guard has started 114 college games and averaged 16.4 points and 5.7 assists at Arizona State last season while shooting 38% from three and 83% from the free-throw line.
Kentucky already has Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins in the backcourt, but Odum could add experience and another offensive creator.
Ultimately, Pope has several directions he can take.
Tyson could provide the shooting Kentucky loves. Keita could strengthen the frontcourt. Moutaouakkil could add scoring depth, while Odum would bring veteran leadership.
The biggest question is whether Kentucky decides to make another splash or simply develop the players already on the roster.
One thing is certain: Mark Mitchell’s departure changed the equation, and Mark Pope now has one final opportunity to make a move that could have a major impact on Kentucky’s season.
