DEAL NEWS: Kentucky is eyeing the early top-ranked transfer……See more
The Kentucky Wildcats are actively pursuing top talent in the transfer portal to strengthen their roster for the upcoming 2025–2026 basketball season. Head coach Mark Pope and his staff have identified several key players to address specific team needs, particularly at the point guard and forward positions.
**Point Guard Prospects**
One of the most notable targets is **Donovan Dent**, a standout guard from the University of New Mexico. Dent has entered the transfer portal for his final year of eligibility after leading the Lobos to an NCAA tournament victory. This season, he averaged 20.4 points, 6.4 assists, and 2.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. His improved three-point shooting, now at 40.9%, adds to his offensive versatility. Dent’s dynamic style has attracted interest from several top programs, including Kentucky, North Carolina, Texas Tech, Alabama, and Florida. citeturn0news13
Another significant prospect is **Dedan Thomas Jr.**, a sophomore point guard from UNLV. Following the departure of UNLV head coach Kevin Kruger, Thomas Jr. entered the transfer portal and has become a highly sought-after player. He averaged 15.6 points, 4.7 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game this past season, earning Third Team All-Mountain West honors. Programs like Florida, UCLA, and Gonzaga are also pursuing Thomas Jr., but Kentucky’s need for a new floor general makes him a priority target. citeturn0news14
**Wing and Forward Targets**
To bolster their perimeter shooting and versatility, Kentucky has reached out to **Lamar Wilkerson**, a 6’5″ guard from Sam Houston State. Wilkerson had an impressive season, averaging 20.5 points per game while shooting 47% from the field and nearly 45% from three-point range. His sharpshooting ability makes him an attractive option for the Wildcats, who are looking to enhance their offensive firepower. citeturn0news12
In the frontcourt, **Alvaro Folgueiras**, a forward from Robert Morris, has caught Kentucky’s attention. Folgueiras was named Horizon League Player of the Year after averaging 14.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 55% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute across multiple statistical categories aligns with Kentucky’s desire for versatile big men. citeturn0news12
**Additional Notable Contacts**
The Wildcats have also engaged with **Kam Williams**, a 6’8″ freshman guard from Tulane, who averaged 9.3 points per game and shot 41.2% from three-point range. Williams offers depth at both the wing and small-ball forward positions, providing flexibility in lineup configurations. citeturn0news15
Furthermore, Kentucky has shown interest in **Magoon Gwath**, a 7-foot center from San Diego State. Gwath earned Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year honors as a redshirt freshman, averaging 8.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. His defensive presence and shot-blocking ability could significantly bolster Kentucky’s interior defense. citeturn0news16
**Strategic Recruitment Approach**
Coach Mark Pope’s proactive engagement in the transfer portal reflects a strategic approach to roster construction, aiming to blend experienced transfers with incoming recruits. This method addresses immediate needs while fostering a competitive environment within the team. As the Wildcats prepare for the upcoming season, these targeted efforts in the transfer market are expected to play a crucial role in their pursuit of excellence on the court.
