With the NCAA transfer portal closing April 22, Kentucky head coach Mark Pope is finalizing a roster that blends returning talent and strategic portal additions. The Wildcats are set to retain key underclassmen while aggressively pursuing high-impact transfers to offset six major departures, including four starters.
Returning Core
Sophomores Collin Chandler and Trent Noah headline the returning group. Chandler emerged as a reliable postseason contributor, while Noah—a hometown favorite—aims to add muscle for increased physicality. Senior guard Otega Oweh, last season’s leading scorer, could return to provide veteran leadership.
Transfer Portal Haul
Kentucky has secured four commitments:
Kam Williams (Tulane): AAC All-Freshman wing with defensive versatility.
Jaland Lowe (Pittsburgh): Playmaking guard (9.9 PPG, 3.8 APG).
Mouhamed Dioubate (Alabama): Athletic forward for frontcourt depth.
Jayden Quaintance (Arizona State): 17-year-old phenom (9.4 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 2.6 BPG) and Naismith Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Critical Targets
The Wildcats remain locked in a battle for Lamar Wilkerson (Sam Houston State), a 6’3” guard who averaged 20.5 PPG and shot 44.5% from three. Pope is also seeking a rim protector to complement Quaintance, as former center Ugonna Onyenso re-entered the portal.
Roster Outlook
Pope’s 2025-26 squad aims to balance youthful potential (Quaintance, Noah) with portal-tested contributors (Lowe, Williams). While the backcourt appears set, frontcourt depth remains a priority. Kentucky’s ability to land Wilkerson and another big man will determine whether this group can replicate last season’s Sweet 16 run.
