Kentucky may already have a roster capable of making plenty of noise in 2026-27, but Mark Pope is not finished looking for ways to make the Wildcats even better.
With one scholarship spot still available, Kentucky has been closely monitoring the changing college basketball landscape following recent eligibility developments involving players from the 2022 high school class. Those rulings could give several experienced players another opportunity to play college basketball, and Pope appears ready to take advantage if the right opportunity presents itself.
Speaking with The Field of 68, Pope was asked about Kentucky’s plans for the final roster spot. His answer made it clear that the Wildcats are actively exploring their options.
«“We’re very aggressively looking at every opportunity, like we always will. If there’s something that arises that can really help us be better, we’re going to take advantage of it.”»
That is an important update for Big Blue Nation.
Kentucky has already assembled a talented roster, but Pope has acknowledged that there are areas where his team can still improve. Physicality and rebounding have been among the biggest concerns, particularly with the Wildcats preparing for another demanding SEC schedule.
Two names have emerged as especially intriguing possibilities: former Missouri forward Mark Mitchell and former Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler.
Mark Mitchell Could Give Kentucky More Physicality
Mitchell would be an intriguing addition because he already knows the SEC and has proven that he can produce against high-level competition.
The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 18.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game for Missouri last season. He also showed Kentucky fans exactly what he can do when the Wildcats faced the Tigers in the SEC Tournament, scoring 32 points against Kentucky.
Adding Mitchell would give Pope another physical scoring option at the power-forward position.
He would also potentially form an impressive frontcourt combination alongside Kentucky’s returning big men, giving the Wildcats another player capable of creating offense when possessions become difficult.
Mitchell’s ability to score from inside and make an impact physically could address one of the areas Pope has openly identified as something his team needs to improve.
Jaxon Kohler Would Address Kentucky’s Rebounding Need
Kohler presents a slightly different skill set but could be just as valuable.
The Michigan State forward averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds per game last season while shooting 38.9% from three-point range on more than four attempts per game.
That combination is particularly attractive.
Kentucky would not simply be adding another big body. Kohler could provide rebounding, physicality and legitimate shooting ability from the perimeter.
His 8.9 rebounds per game would immediately stand out on a Kentucky roster that could use more production on the glass.
While Mitchell may have the slight advantage as an offensive creator, Kohler could arguably address more of the specific weaknesses Pope has discussed.
Pope Isn’t Closing the Door
The biggest takeaway from Pope’s latest comments is that Kentucky is not simply leaving the 15th roster spot open without a plan.
The Wildcats appear to be actively evaluating the market and waiting for an opportunity that makes sense.
Pope’s approach has been consistent: if another player becomes available who can genuinely make Kentucky better, the Wildcats will explore the possibility.
That doesn’t guarantee that Mitchell, Kohler or anyone else will ultimately land in Lexington. But it does suggest that Big Blue Nation should continue watching the final roster spot closely.
Kentucky already has plenty of talent heading into the 2026-27 season. If Pope can add another proven frontcourt player with the right combination of physicality, rebounding and scoring, the Wildcats could become an even more dangerous team.
And with the SEC expected to be as competitive as ever, having one more proven piece could make a major difference when March arrives.
