These are Mark Pope and Kentucky basketball’s top targets on the NCAA transfer portal

As the transfer portal continues to reshape the landscape of college basketball, Coach Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats are keeping a sharp eye on the available talent to strengthen their roster for the 2025-26 season. With an ever-evolving team and high expectations, Kentucky has to make strategic decisions in the portal, balancing immediate needs with long-term success. The Wildcats’ storied history, coaching pedigree under John Calipari (though Pope is currently at the helm), and ability to develop NBA-caliber talent give them a distinct advantage in attracting top-tier players.

The transfer portal allows programs like Kentucky to improve their rosters quickly, with experienced players who can make an immediate impact. With the Wildcats looking to contend for national championships and reload for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament, Pope’s recruiting efforts are critical in determining the team’s future. In this article, we will examine Kentucky’s primary targets in the transfer portal and analyze how these players could fit into the Wildcats’ lineup.

1. Point Guard Position: A Key Area of Focus

A major area of concern for Kentucky basketball in recent seasons has been the point guard position. With the departure of former players like Kerr Kriisa and others, there’s a noticeable gap at this position. To remedy this, Coach Mark Pope and his staff are targeting several talented point guards who can step in and make an immediate impact.

Target: Jaden Ivey (Purdue)

Jaden Ivey, a former standout at Purdue, has shown that he can be a game-changer for any team he joins. Although he is well known for his stint in the NBA, his performance before entering the draft was marked by speed, vision, and leadership on the court. While his future may be in the NBA, the Kentucky coaching staff is reportedly interested in adding a dynamic point guard, and Ivey could bring a lot to the table. His skills and playmaking ability make him a valuable target, providing Kentucky with the opportunity to solidify the most critical position on the floor.

Target: Tyrese Hunter (Texas)

Tyrese Hunter transferred to Texas after a standout freshman year at Iowa State and has shown he can thrive in a competitive college environment. His ability to distribute the ball, handle pressure, and contribute defensively makes him a top priority for Kentucky. Hunter is a player that can step in and contribute immediately. With his combination of speed and court vision, he could help Kentucky run its offense efficiently and ensure stability in the backcourt.

2. Wings and Forwards: Versatility and Depth

While Kentucky boasts some highly skilled forwards and wings, the Wildcats are always looking for depth and versatility. Coach Pope values players who can contribute both offensively and defensively, and with several players departing or exploring professional opportunities, adding depth to these positions is essential for success in a long season.

Target: KJ Adams (Kansas)

KJ Adams is a versatile forward who can play both the small and power forward positions. His athleticism, rebounding ability, and scoring versatility make him a prime target for Kentucky. Adams is a well-rounded player with the physicality to compete in the SEC and a high basketball IQ that allows him to excel in different roles. If he were to transfer to Kentucky, his experience and ability to impact multiple areas of the game would immediately help solidify Kentucky’s frontcourt.

Target: Grant Nelson (North Dakota State)

Grant Nelson has long been one of the most intriguing players in the NCAA transfer portal. Known for his length and versatility, Nelson can stretch the floor with his shooting while also being a capable defender. His scoring ability, especially from the perimeter, would add a new dimension to Kentucky’s offense, complementing their existing talent. Nelson’s experience in a smaller program has given him the opportunity to refine his game, and he could provide a solid presence for the Wildcats in both offense and defense.

3. Big Men: Dominating the Paint

The center position has always been a key to Kentucky’s identity, with big men often playing crucial roles in their success. With Oscar Tshiebwe leaving the program and a need for dominant interior players, Kentucky is actively searching for someone who can control the paint and provide solid rebounding and defense.

Target: Zed Key (Ohio State)

Zed Key is a physical presence in the paint, boasting a combination of size, strength, and defensive prowess. Known for his ability to dominate the glass and protect the rim, Key would be a great addition to the Wildcats’ frontcourt. He has shown that he can score inside and be a force on defense, making him a prime candidate to fill the center position at Kentucky. With the Wildcats looking to reload in the middle, Key’s experience at Ohio State gives him a high ceiling as an impact player in the SEC.

Target: Baye Fall (Colorado)

Baye Fall is another highly coveted center in the transfer portal. His ability to block shots, his presence in the paint, and his rebounding make him a valuable addition for any team looking to bolster their frontcourt. At 6’11”, Fall has the size to compete with some of the best big men in college basketball. Kentucky has long had a reputation for producing dominant centers, and Fall could fit in perfectly with the Wildcats’ system. His shot-blocking and rebounding ability would significantly help Kentucky control the inside game.

4. Shooting Guard and Small Forward: Scoring and Shooting Threats

With Kentucky’s emphasis on developing all-around players, adding more scoring threats at the shooting guard and small forward positions remains a top priority. Pope needs players who can contribute on both ends of the floor, particularly those who can stretch the defense with outside shooting.

Target: Caleb Love (North Carolina)

Caleb Love is a dynamic guard who has shown that he can thrive in high-pressure situations. Love’s scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, makes him a key target for Kentucky’s backcourt. After spending several successful seasons at North Carolina, Love could bring instant offense to the Wildcats. His experience at a high level of college basketball and his ability to create his own shot would be a huge asset to the team. Kentucky has long been known for its guard play, and Love could be the next piece in a backcourt that is looking to become even more explosive.

Target: Jalen Bridges (Baylor)

Jalen Bridges is another player in the transfer portal who fits Kentucky’s need for a versatile wing. At 6’7”, Bridges brings a combination of size and skill, with the ability to score in a variety of ways. He is capable of hitting perimeter shots and finishing inside, making him a threat on both ends of the floor. Bridges’ defensive abilities would also be valuable to Kentucky, allowing him to guard multiple positions and contribute to the team’s overall defensive scheme. His experience in the Big 12 adds another layer of competitiveness to his resume, making him a potential difference-maker in the SEC.

5. Additional Transfer Portal Targets: Filling the Gaps

While Kentucky is focused on securing key players at the point guard, forward, and center positions, there are also a few other players in the transfer portal who could complement the Wildcats’ existing roster and provide depth in various areas.

Target: RJ Melendez (Illinois)

RJ Melendez is a versatile forward who can contribute in a variety of ways. His athleticism, rebounding ability, and defensive prowess make him a potential asset for Kentucky, especially as a depth player. Melendez is a versatile player who can operate both inside and on the perimeter, making him a potential matchup nightmare for opposing teams. Kentucky’s focus on versatility would make Melendez an intriguing addition to their already talented roster.

Target: Jahvon Quinerly (Alabama)

Jahvon Quinerly is a highly experienced guard who has played a significant role for Alabama in the SEC. Known for his leadership and scoring ability, Quinerly would bring both depth and a wealth of experience to the Wildcats’ backcourt. His ability to create offense and his defensive tenacity could make him a valuable contributor to Kentucky’s 2025-26 campaign. If Kentucky is looking to add an experienced guard who can compete at a high level, Quinerly would be a smart choice.