22. Texas Longhorns
25. Miami Hurricanes
28. BYU Cougars
29. Maryland Terps
31. UCLA Bruins
32. Oregon Ducks
34. Florida Gators
35. Ole Miss
36. USC Trojans
39. Mississippi State Bulldogs
41. Memphis Tigers
42. McNeese Cowboys
45. VCU Rams
46. Dayton Flyers
47. St Mary’s Gaels
49. UCF Knights
52. Clemson Tigers
53. New Mexico Lobos
58. SMU Mustangs
60. Nevada Wolfpack
61. TCU Horned Frogs
63. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
65. Syracuse Orange
68. Iowa Hawkeyes
70. Butler Bulldogs
71. Princeton Tigers
74. Oklahoma Sooners
75. West Virginia Mountaineers
76. Georgia Bulldogs
77. UAB Blazers
80. Missouri Tigers
Here’s where each of our analysts have the Wildcats ranked:
| Steven | Maxwell | Kam | Cody |
| 28 | 38 | 16 | 18 |
Kentucky Men’s Basketball 2022-2023 Season Overview
John Calipari’s Impact
The 2022-2023 season marked another chapter under head coach John Calipari, who has led the Kentucky Wildcats since 2009. Known for his ability to recruit and develop NBA-level talent, Calipari continued to shape the program’s identity around elite prospects and fast-paced basketball. While the Wildcats have enjoyed a history of success under his leadership, the 2022-2023 season brought challenges, as Kentucky looked to reestablish itself as a top contender in the SEC and nationally.
Calipari’s philosophy of recruiting “one-and-done” players—athletes who leave for the NBA after one season—remained central to Kentucky’s roster construction. This approach required the team to adapt quickly, as many key players had limited time to develop chemistry. Despite some ups and downs, the Wildcats were able to regroup late in the season and made a strong push for postseason success.
2022-2023 Season Recap
Kentucky’s season started with high expectations but was met with mixed results early on. The Wildcats finished the regular season with a 22-12 overall record and a 12-6 mark in SEC play, good enough for third place in the conference. Notable victories over top teams like Tennessee and Auburn demonstrated the team’s potential, but inconsistency plagued their campaign.
After a slow start in non-conference play, Kentucky found its rhythm midseason, relying on a balanced attack and significant contributions from both veterans and newcomers. Their defense tightened up as the season progressed, and they peaked at the right time for a run in the SEC Tournament. However, their momentum was short-lived, as they suffered an early exit in the conference tournament, falling to Vanderbilt in the quarterfinals.
In the NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats entered as a No. 6 seed. They secured a win over Providence in the first round but were eliminated by Kansas State in the Round of 32, ending their hopes of a deep postseason run.
Offensive Philosophy
Offensively, Kentucky averaged 74.5 points per game, ranking 113th in the nation. Calipari’s teams are known for their transition game and up-tempo style, and the 2022-2023 Wildcats were no exception. They emphasized ball movement and fast breaks, with an inside-out approach that took advantage of their dominant big men.
Key to their offense was the play of Oscar Tshiebwe. Tshiebwe averaged 16.5 points per game and was a force on the boards, leading the nation with 13.7 rebounds per game. His ability to control the paint and create second-chance opportunities was a major factor in Kentucky’s offensive success.
Guards Antonio Reeves and Cason Wallace also played critical roles. Reeves, a sharpshooter, provided perimeter scoring, while Wallace, a freshman, emerged as a capable floor general, averaging 11.7 points and 4.3 assists per game.
Defensive Philosophy
Defensively, Kentucky’s 2022-2023 team was solid but not elite. They allowed 67.8 points per game, focusing on a man-to-man scheme with an emphasis on protecting the rim. Tshiebwe anchored the defense with his rebounding and shot-blocking ability, while Wallace contributed as a perimeter defender.
Calipari’s teams typically rely on athleticism to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes, and this squad followed suit. Kentucky averaged 6.8 steals and 4.4 blocks per game, using their size and speed to create turnovers that fueled their transition offense. However, there were stretches where defensive lapses cost the Wildcats, particularly in games against top-tier opponents.
Key Players
- Oscar Tshiebwe: The heart and soul of the team, Tshiebwe dominated the boards and was a consistent double-double machine. He averaged 16.5 points and 13.7 rebounds per game, earning All-American honors for the second straight year.
- Antonio Reeves: Reeves led Kentucky in scoring with 14.4 points per game, particularly excelling as a three-point shooter. His ability to stretch defenses was crucial to the Wildcats’ offensive flow.
- Cason Wallace: A promising freshman guard, Wallace averaged 11.7 points and 4.3 assists. His ability to drive, distribute, and defend made him one of Kentucky’s most versatile players.
- Jacob Toppin: Toppin, a senior forward, added 12.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. His athleticism and experience provided a key presence on both ends of the floor.
Postseason Performance and Looking Ahead
Despite a disappointing second-round exit in the NCAA Tournament, Kentucky’s 2022-2023 season laid the groundwork for future success. With a mix of experienced players like Tshiebwe and promising young talent, the Wildcats remained competitive but fell short of their ultimate goal: a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Looking ahead, Kentucky’s ability to reload through recruiting and the transfer portal, combined with Calipari’s track record of player development, should keep them in contention for years to come. If key players return and new recruits adjust quickly, the Wildcats are likely to remain a formidable force in both the SEC and national landscape in the 2023-2024 season.
2023-2024 Kentucky Wildcats Men’s Basketball Preview
John Calipari’s Continuing Legacy
As the 2023-2024 season tips off, John Calipari enters his 15th year as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. Known for his recruiting prowess and “one-and-done” philosophy, Calipari’s leadership continues to shape the program’s identity. After an up-and-down 2022-2023 season that ended in a Round of 32 loss in the NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats are poised for a fresh start, with a roster featuring a mix of returning veterans and a highly-touted incoming freshman class.
Calipari’s offseason focused on retooling the roster to address last year’s weaknesses, particularly perimeter shooting and defensive consistency. As usual, expectations are high in Lexington, where the fanbase hopes to see Kentucky reclaim its place among college basketball’s elite and contend for a national championship.
Key Returners and Newcomers
The 2023-2024 roster brings together a strong blend of returning talent and exciting new faces, making this season one filled with promise.
Key Returners:
- Antonio Reeves (Senior, Guard): Reeves returns as one of the team’s most experienced players, coming off a season where he averaged 14.4 points per game and shot 39.8% from three-point range. His leadership and shooting ability will be critical as he takes on a bigger role.
- Ugonna Onyenso (Sophomore, Forward/Center): Onyenso showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman, especially on defense, where he averaged 1.3 blocks per game in limited minutes. With more playing time expected, his shot-blocking and rim protection will be vital for Kentucky’s interior defense.
Top Freshmen:
- DJ Wagner (Freshman, Guard): One of the crown jewels of Calipari’s 2023 recruiting class, Wagner is a dynamic point guard known for his scoring and playmaking abilities. As a third-generation basketball star, he comes with lofty expectations and is projected to be one of the top freshmen in the country.
- Justin Edwards (Freshman, Forward): Edwards, a top-five recruit, brings size, athleticism, and versatility on both ends of the floor. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively from day one makes him a key piece of Kentucky’s plans.
- Reed Sheppard (Freshman, Guard): Sheppard brings a high basketball IQ and versatility to Kentucky’s backcourt. At 6’3”, Sheppard is a dynamic guard who excels in both scoring and playmaking. Known for his shooting ability, he can knock down shots from beyond the arc and create offense off the dribble. His court vision and passing skills make him a valuable asset as a facilitator, while his defensive instincts allow him to disrupt passing lanes and pressure opposing guards. Sheppard’s combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive tenacity gives the Wildcats a well-rounded guard who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
- Rob Dillingham (Freshman, Guard): A lightning-quick guard, Dillingham adds scoring punch and creativity in the backcourt. His ability to break down defenses and score from all three levels will make him a key contributor, especially in transition.
2023-2024 Kentucky Wildcats Men’s Basketball Season Review
A Rollercoaster Ride with Highs and Lows
The 2023-2024 season for the Kentucky Wildcats was nothing short of dramatic. With head coach John Calipari leading a talented but youthful roster, the team faced its share of ups and downs, ultimately finishing the season with a respectable record and a deep NCAA Tournament run. Preseason expectations were high, fueled by a top-tier recruiting class and the return of key veterans. While the Wildcats encountered some growing pains early on, they found their rhythm at the right time and closed the season as one of the most dangerous teams in the country.
Slow Start and Non-Conference Challenges
Kentucky’s season began with a challenging non-conference schedule, featuring marquee matchups against top-ranked teams like Kansas, Michigan State, and Gonzaga. The young Wildcats struggled to gel early, with inconsistent shooting and defensive lapses contributing to a few tough losses. However, these early challenges served as learning experiences for the freshmen and allowed the team to build chemistry. Despite the bumps, standout performances from key players like DJ Wagner and Antonio Reeves kept the Wildcats competitive.
By the time conference play arrived, Kentucky had a respectable but not dominant record. Critics began to question whether this youthful squad could meet the high expectations placed upon them.
SEC Play and Midseason Turnaround
As the calendar turned to SEC play, the Wildcats began to hit their stride. DJ Wagner, in his sophomore campaign, emerged as a leader, consistently delivering in key moments. His backcourt partner, freshman sensation Reed Sheppard, provided a spark with his high basketball IQ and shooting. The duo quickly became one of the most formidable guard tandems in the SEC.
Justin Edwards and Aaron Bradshaw, both sophomores, took their games to the next level. Edwards’ versatility on both ends of the floor, combined with Bradshaw’s rim protection and shooting ability, gave Kentucky a balanced attack. Bradshaw’s ability to stretch the floor as a 7-footer allowed Kentucky to space the floor and opened up driving lanes for the guards.
Kentucky’s midseason turnaround came after a pivotal win over Arkansas, which seemed to give the young team the confidence it needed. From that point forward, the Wildcats found their rhythm, going on a strong run that positioned them near the top of the SEC standings. They finished conference play with an impressive 13-5 record, securing the No. 3 seed in the SEC Tournament.
SEC Tournament Performance
The Wildcats entered the SEC Tournament with momentum and high hopes of capturing a conference title. After a dominant win in the quarterfinals, Kentucky faced a tough semifinal matchup against Alabama, the top seed in the conference. Despite a valiant effort, the Wildcats fell just short in a hard-fought game, ending their tournament run earlier than expected. However, their strong performance throughout the season earned them a favorable seed in the NCAA Tournament.
NCAA Tournament Run
When it came to the NCAA Tournament, the Wildcats were battle-tested and ready. Entering as a No. 4 seed in the East region, Kentucky started their March Madness journey with a convincing win over a tough mid-major opponent in the first round. The backcourt duo of Wagner and Sheppard, combined with Edwards’ two-way play, propelled the Wildcats to a dominant second-round victory, sending them to the Sweet 16.
In the Sweet 16, Kentucky faced a highly anticipated matchup against the No. 1 seed in their region, the Duke Blue Devils. In what became an instant classic, DJ Wagner took over, dropping 25 points and orchestrating Kentucky’s offense with poise. Aaron Bradshaw was a force defensively, with 4 blocks and key rebounds in the closing moments. Kentucky pulled off a stunning upset, advancing to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2019.
Unfortunately, the Wildcats’ magical run came to an end in the Elite Eight, where they lost a close game to a gritty Michigan State team. Despite the defeat, the Wildcats had reestablished themselves as one of the nation’s premier programs, leaving fans excited for the future.
Key Players and Performances
- DJ Wagner (Freshman, Guard): While he may not have led the team in scoring, he still contributed significantly, averaging 9.9 points per game and 3.3 assists per game. His ability to take over games in critical moments and guide his younger teammates on the floor made him an indispensable part of Kentucky’s success. Wagner’s steady presence and playmaking ensured that he was a key figure in the Wildcats’ deep NCAA Tournament run, cementing his status as one of the team’s most valuable players.
- Justin Edwards (Freshman, Forward): Edwards did not live up to his expectations coming into his freshman season, averaging 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds. But his versatility on both ends of the floor was crucial to Kentucky’s success, and his ability to guard multiple positions made him a defensive anchor.
- Antonio Reeves (Senior, Forward): Reeves had an outstanding senior season, emerging as Kentucky’s go-to scorer with an impressive 20.2 points per game. His elite shooting ability was on full display, as he knocked down 44.7% of his three-point attempts, making him one of the most dangerous perimeter threats in the nation. In addition to his scoring prowess, Reeves contributed 4.2 rebounds per game, using his athleticism to help on the boards. His consistent scoring and leadership were crucial to the Wildcats’ success, and his ability to stretch the floor provided Kentucky with a vital offensive weapon throughout the season.
- Reed Sheppard (Freshman, Guard): Sheppard proved to be a breakout freshman, with his sharpshooting and playmaking adding a new dimension to Kentucky’s offense. He averaged 11.0 points and shot 41% from beyond the arc, while also making key defensive plays.
Offensive Philosophy
Kentucky’s offense in 2023-2024 will likely continue to emphasize transition opportunities and up-tempo play. With a roster full of athleticism and speed, the Wildcats will look to push the ball up the court quickly and score before opposing defenses are set. The freshmen guards, particularly Wagner and Dillingham, are expected to play a key role in running the offense and creating opportunities for teammates. They ranked 2nd in the nation averaging 89.0 PS/G.
In the half-court, look for Kentucky to utilize a more balanced attack. Reeves will be a go-to option from beyond the arc, while the Wildcats will also work to feed their talented frontcourt, including Bradshaw and Onyenso. The versatility of players like Edwards and Bradshaw, who can step out and hit mid-range or three-point shots, should provide spacing for the offense to operate.
Defensive Philosophy
Calipari has long emphasized defense, and this year’s team should follow suit with a focus on protecting the paint and forcing turnovers. Onyenso and Bradshaw provide elite rim protection, which will allow Kentucky’s guards to apply pressure on the perimeter. The Wildcats’ length and athleticism will be key to disrupting passing lanes and creating fast-break opportunities off steals and blocks. They ranked 344th in the nation on defense, averaging 79.7 PA/G.
Kentucky will need to improve its consistency on defense, especially in guarding the three-point line. Last season, the Wildcats were vulnerable to teams that shot well from the perimeter, so this will be an area of focus for the 2023-2024 squad.
2024-2025 Kentucky Wildcats Men’s Basketball Preview
Mark Pope’s Debut: A New Era for Kentucky Basketball
As the Kentucky Wildcats prepare for the 2024-2025 season, they enter a new chapter under head coach Mark Pope, who takes the reins following John Calipari’s long tenure. Pope, a former Kentucky player and assistant coach, returns to Lexington with a fresh perspective and a winning pedigree after a successful stint at BYU. Wildcats fans are eager to see how Pope’s leadership and tactical adjustments will shape a program long known for its success.
With a deep roster filled with returning stars and elite newcomers, the Wildcats are once again poised to compete for a national championship. Pope’s ability to blend his coaching philosophy with Kentucky’s storied “one-and-done” culture will be key as he takes on the challenge of maintaining the program’s status as a perennial powerhouse.
2024-2025 Kentucky Wildcats: Impact Transfers and Roster Overhaul
For the 2024-2025 season, the Kentucky Wildcats are undergoing a major roster transformation, bringing in nine high-impact transfers to complement a talented freshman class. These transfers bring a blend of experience, versatility, and unique skill sets that will bolster Kentucky’s chances of competing for an SEC title and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Each player adds something distinct to the lineup, from scoring and defense to leadership and playmaking. Here’s a closer look at the incoming transfers and their potential impact on the Wildcats.
Otega Oweh (Transfer from Oklahoma, Guard)
Oweh brings defensive toughness and athleticism to the Wildcats. After two solid seasons at Oklahoma, where he showcased his ability to guard multiple positions, Oweh is expected to play a key role in Kentucky’s backcourt rotation. His slashing ability and defensive versatility will complement Kentucky’s uptempo offense. At Oklahoma, Oweh averaged 11.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, but under Mark Pope’s system, he could see an increase in both production and impact as a defensive stopper and energy player.
Lamont Butler (Transfer from San Diego State, Guard)
A seasoned veteran, Butler joins Kentucky fresh off leading San Diego State to the national championship game in 2023. Known for his clutch play, including hitting the game-winning shot in the Final Four, Butler brings championship experience, leadership, and elite defense to the Wildcats. Last season, Butler averaged 9.3 points, 3 assists, and .9 steals per game while consistently guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. His defensive acumen and big-game mentality will be invaluable for Kentucky’s young roster, and his playmaking should elevate the Wildcats’ offensive flow.
Jaxson Robinson (Transfer from BYU, Forward)
Robinson, a dynamic wing, reunites with Mark Pope after transferring from BYU. Known for his ability to shoot from deep and create off the dribble, Robinson averaged 14.2 points and 2.5 rebounds per game in his final season at BYU. He shot a solid 35.4% from beyond the arc, providing Kentucky with another floor spacer who can stretch defenses. At 6’7″, Robinson’s size and athleticism also make him a capable defender, which will allow him to guard multiple positions in Pope’s system.
Koby Brea (Transfer from Dayton, Guard)
Koby Brea comes to Kentucky as one of the most lethal shooters in the country. During his time at Dayton, Brea shot 49.8% from three-point range while averaging 11.1 points per game. His sharpshooting ability will be crucial in opening up the floor for Kentucky’s slashers and big men, making him a key piece in the Wildcats’ offensive scheme. Brea’s ability to knock down shots from deep under pressure will make him a valuable weapon, particularly in late-game situations when Kentucky needs a big basket.
Andrew Carr (Transfer from Wake Forest, Forward)
Carr is a versatile stretch big man who brings a combination of size, shooting, and playmaking from the forward position. At Wake Forest, he averaged 13.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game while shooting 37.1% from three-point range. Carr’s ability to knock down perimeter shots and stretch the defense will give Kentucky valuable spacing, while his size at 6’10″ allows him to protect the rim and rebound effectively. His versatility will allow Mark Pope to experiment with different lineups, making Carr a crucial piece for Kentucky’s frontcourt.
Brandon Garrison (Transfer from Oklahoma State, Forward/Center)
A top recruit in 2023, Brandon Garrison comes to Kentucky from Oklahoma State, where he showcased his physicality and rebounding ability. Standing at 6’9″, Garrison averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game as a freshman. His presence in the paint will bolster Kentucky’s rim protection and provide a strong defensive anchor. Garrison’s ability to control the boards and alter shots around the rim makes him a valuable addition to Kentucky’s frontcourt depth.
Ansley Almonor (Transfer from Fairleigh Dickinson, Forward)
Almonor played a key role in Fairleigh Dickinson’s historic NCAA Tournament upset over No. 1 seed Purdue in 2023. Known for his scoring and rebounding, Almonor averaged 16.4 points and 5.1 rebounds per game last season. At 6’6″, he plays bigger than his size, utilizing his high motor and toughness to make an impact on both ends of the floor. His ability to score inside and out, along with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him a valuable role player who can come off the bench and provide energy for Kentucky.
Amari Williams (Transfer from Drexel, Center)
Williams is a 6’10” center who made a name for himself at Drexel with his shot-blocking, rebounding, and inside scoring. Last season, he averaged 12.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, solidifying himself as one of the top defensive big men in the country. His athleticism and rim protection will be a great complement to Kentucky’s other frontcourt players, and his ability to finish around the basket will add a physical presence inside. Williams’ defensive prowess will be crucial in games against other top-tier teams with strong interior players.
Kerr Kriisa (Transfer from West Virginia, Guard)
Kriisa, an experienced point guard, comes to Kentucky after a brief stint at West Virginia. Known for his flashy playmaking and three-point shooting, Kriisa averaged 11 points and 4.7 assists per game while shooting 42.4% from beyond the arc at Arizona before his transfer. His ability to create shots for others and stretch the defense with his shooting makes him a perfect fit in Pope’s system. Kriisa’s veteran presence will be essential for Kentucky, providing leadership and stability at the point guard position.
2024-2025 Season Outlook: A New Kentucky Powerhouse
With the influx of nine impactful transfers, the Wildcats have a well-rounded, deep roster filled with experience, scoring, and defensive prowess. Mark Pope’s first season as head coach promises to be an exciting one, as Kentucky looks to make a significant push for the SEC title and a national championship. They will bring back less than 1% of their roster from last season and 0% of their scoring contributions. This is a complete overhaul of the roster, and it may take some time to build chemistry, but there is no doubt they have added some of the best transfer talent in the nation.
The 2024-2025 Wildcats will rely on their new additions to provide both leadership and production, allowing them to contend with other top-tier programs across the country. This revamped roster, under Pope’s guidance, should make Kentucky one of the most dangerous teams in the country, with the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
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