Walker Horn is officially back with the Kentucky Wildcats, thanks to a major shift in NCAA policy following the approval of the House v. NCAA settlement.
Horn, a 6-foot-3 senior guard, initially entered the transfer portal earlier this offseason. However, a judge’s approval of the settlement has introduced a grandfathering clause, allowing teams to expand beyond the previous 13-scholarship limit. As a result, Kentucky now boasts a 15-man scholarship roster, including Horn.
The son of Northern Kentucky head coach Darrin Horn, Walker appeared in 13 games across three seasons in Lexington. His playing time was limited—four games in both the 2022–23 and 2023–24 seasons, and five games in 2024–25—but he tallied two assists and one rebound over 16 total minutes.
Horn originally committed to Kentucky over offers from programs like Marquette and Michigan State. He began his high school career at Covington Catholic in Kentucky before transferring to Westlake High School in Austin, Texas.
Horn’s return provides a boost of experience and leadership for the Wildcats, who are now entering their first full offseason under new head coach Mark Pope. This comes as the program begins to adjust to a rapidly evolving college sports landscape.
The settlement may also pave the way for other returning players. Former walk-ons Grant Darbyshire and Zach Tow, both part of last year’s roster, could also come back under the expanded roster provision.
As Kentucky prepares for a new era, Horn’s presence brings a sense of continuity—something that could prove vital as the Wildcats pursue their long-standing mission: banner No. 9.
