When Mark Pope took over at Kentucky, he inherited a program desperate for balance. Last year’s Wildcats could score with anyone in the country, but their defensive flaws were glaring, and ultimately, it cost them in March.
That narrative may be about to change. Pope spent the offseason reshaping his roster through the transfer portal, high school recruiting, and even international scouting. The mission? To build a Kentucky team that could attack at an elite level while finally locking opponents down on defense.
Now, advanced analytics are backing up Pope’s vision. According to EvanMiya.com, a trusted source for college basketball efficiency metrics, Kentucky is projected to have top-15 rankings in both offense and defense. That matters because nearly every modern NCAA champion has fit that exact profile.
If the numbers hold true, Kentucky may finally have the formula that leads back to a Final Four.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Kentucky’s Top Offensive Weapons
The Wildcats are built around versatile scorers who can attack defenses in multiple ways. EvanMiya’s offensive ratings highlight the five players projected to carry the load on that end of the floor:
1. Jaland Lowe – 3.49
The transfer guard is expected to be the centerpiece of Kentucky’s attack. His quickness off the dribble, ability to create space, and efficient shooting make him a nightmare for defenders. Lowe isn’t just a scorer—he’s a floor general who can elevate teammates around him.
2. Otega Oweh – 2.88
Oweh’s athleticism makes him a relentless downhill threat. He thrives in transition and has improved as a finisher, giving Kentucky a dynamic scoring punch on the wing.
3. Brandon Garrison – 2.87
The sophomore big man has developed into a reliable inside-out weapon. His footwork in the post combined with his mid-range touch makes him a tough cover, and his passing out of double-teams gives the offense balance.
4. Mo Dioubate – 2.56
Known more for his motor and defense, Dioubate’s offensive growth has been noticeable. He cleans up the glass, finishes through contact, and provides second-chance points that energize the team.
5. Jasper Johnson – 1.63
The freshman sharpshooter has elite potential. Even with limited experience, Johnson’s ability to stretch defenses with his outside shot is going to be invaluable.
The Wild Card:
Denzel Aberdeen, ranked just 10th offensively at 1.32, is the player analytics may be underrating most. At Florida, Aberdeen flashed the ability to score at all three levels. Now with a bigger role, he could emerge as one of Kentucky’s most consistent offensive weapons.
Kentucky’s Defensive Backbone
If offense brings fans to their feet, defense wins championships—and this roster has the pieces to do just that. EvanMiya’s ratings point to a new defensive identity under Pope:
1. Jayden Quaintance – 3.96
At just 18 years old, Quaintance is already a defensive monster. His length, timing, and shot-blocking instincts give Kentucky the rim protector it has desperately needed. He could be the difference-maker in March.
2. Mo Dioubate – 3.56
Dioubate embodies hustle and toughness. He guards multiple positions, rebounds with authority, and consistently makes winning plays.
3. Otega Oweh – 3.48
Oweh brings perimeter lockdown ability. His quick feet and strength allow him to guard both guards and forwards, making him a matchup nightmare for opponents.
4. Brandon Garrison – 2.89
A steady interior defender who alters shots without fouling. Garrison’s discipline around the rim complements Quaintance perfectly.
5. Jaland Lowe – 1.87
While his offense gets the headlines, Lowe’s defensive numbers show he’s far from a liability. He’ll be key in containing opposing guards.
The Overlooked Defender:
Collin Chandler graded out at just 0.32 (12th on the team), but his eye test tells a different story. Down the stretch last season, Chandler took on some of the toughest assignments and delivered. Expect him to outplay the projections.
Why This Matters for Kentucky’s Championship Hopes
The history is clear: to cut down the nets in April, you need balance. In the past 20 years, nearly every national champion has ranked inside the top 20 of KenPom’s offensive and defensive efficiency ratings. Last season, Kentucky had the firepower but lacked the grit. This season, analytics suggest they finally have both.
Mark Pope has crafted a roster that blends youth (Quaintance, Johnson), experienced transfers (Lowe, Aberdeen), and returning contributors (Dioubate, Garrison). That mix not only raises Kentucky’s floor but also its ceiling.
For Big Blue Nation, the message is simple: if the numbers hold true, this team has everything it takes to chase Banner No. 9.
