When Mark Pope finalized his first Kentucky roster, the reactions were all over the place. Critics said it lacked star power. Fans questioned the mix of returnees, transfers, and freshmen. Message boards called it a “rebuild year.”
But now that summer practices are in full swing? That narrative’s changing fast.
Because what’s happening inside that gym in Lexington isn’t just surprising — it’s turning heads.
Transfers & Returnees Are Setting the Tone
From day one, Otega Oweh has been a sparkplug. His energy on both ends is contagious, and he’s been one of the loudest voices in practice — not in volume, but in effort. Right behind him is Brandon Garrison, who’s anchoring the defense with his shot-blocking and physicality. Garrison doesn’t say much, but his presence in the paint is doing the talking.
Collin Chandler has looked sharp as a floor spacer and slasher, while Mo Dioubate continues to be the under-the-radar returnee making a strong case for serious minutes. His rebounding motor hasn’t slowed down one bit.
Trent Noah, the Kentucky native, has brought a mix of toughness and shot-making — and more importantly, he’s embraced whatever role is needed, whether it’s scoring, screening, or guarding bigger wings.
Freshmen & Newcomers Aren’t Waiting Their Turn
The newcomers aren’t just holding their own — they’re competing like they belong.
Jayden Quaintance, now 18, is showing flashes of something special. He’s raw in some areas, but his footwork, timing, and sheer physical gifts are giving the returnees problems in drills. Coaches are already impressed with how coachable he is — and how quickly he adjusts.
Denzel Aberdeen might be the biggest surprise of all. He’s playing like a veteran: vocal, aggressive, and confident. Whether he’s pushing the tempo, directing the offense, or getting into passing lanes on defense, he’s making it clear he’s here to make an impact right away.
Malachi Moreno, the in-state big, is developing steadily and showing promise in rim protection drills. Kam Williams, Reece Potter, Andrija Jelavic, and Braydon Hawthorne have each had flashes — with Hawthorne in particular getting attention for his defensive activity and nonstop hustle.
A Different Kind of Kentucky Team
This team doesn’t have a Top 10 pick. It doesn’t have McDonald’s All-Americans or viral mixtape stars.
But what it does have is a group of guys who are locked in, working hard, and buying into a system.
Mark Pope’s emphasis on movement, spacing, and decision-making is already showing. The ball doesn’t stick. Players are cutting with purpose. Screens are solid, closeouts are sharp, and everyone seems to be fighting for a role — not for themselves, but for the group.
No egos. No shortcuts. Just pure competition.
Doubters Are Getting Quiet
The preseason talk was that this roster was thrown together, a “B-team” compared to past Kentucky lineups.
But the way these Wildcats are practicing? It looks like a team with something to prove.
And they’re doing it every day — in sprints, in drills, in full-court battles where no one’s backing down.
They heard the skepticism. They saw the doubt.
Now they’re answering back with grit, chemistry, and pride.
