Kentucky’s basketball season is finished. Who’s leaving the team? And who might return?

The 2023-2024 college basketball season has come to an end for the Kentucky Wildcats, and with it, the inevitable wave of speculation and anticipation about the future of the program begins. As one of the most storied programs in NCAA basketball history, Kentucky is used to success, but the end of this season marks a crucial moment for head coach John Calipari and his staff as they assess what worked and what didn’t, and who will be part of the Wildcats’ journey going forward.

The Wildcats entered the 2023-2024 season with high expectations. Despite the pressure to perform in the SEC and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, Kentucky’s season had its ups and downs. While the Wildcats had standout moments and played some high-level basketball, they ultimately fell short of meeting the lofty expectations that come with wearing the blue and white.

Now, as the dust settles on another season, the focus shifts to the future of the program. Who will be leaving the team, and who will return to help lead the Wildcats in the next chapter of their basketball journey? Let’s take a look at the departures, potential returns, and how these moves could shape Kentucky’s roster in the upcoming season.

Who’s Leaving Kentucky Basketball?

The first question that fans, analysts, and coaches alike are asking is: who will be leaving the team after the 2023-2024 season? For many college basketball programs, including Kentucky, this is a crucial point in the off-season. With players either graduating, declaring for the NBA Draft, or choosing to transfer, Kentucky will have some key roster spots to fill. Let’s break down who is expected to depart and why.

1. Oscar Tshiebwe (Senior – NBA Draft)

Oscar Tshiebwe’s time at Kentucky has been nothing short of spectacular. The 2022 National Player of the Year, Tshiebwe has been a dominant force in the paint for the Wildcats, especially in his first two seasons at the school. After transferring from West Virginia in 2021, Tshiebwe quickly became one of the most influential players in college basketball, earning accolades and accolades for his rebounding prowess and scoring ability.

However, as he enters his senior season, Tshiebwe’s NBA aspirations are undeniable. He has proven himself as one of the best big men in college basketball, and there’s little doubt that he will be pursuing a career in the professional ranks. His time at Kentucky is likely over, and his departure will leave a sizable gap in the team’s frontcourt. Tshiebwe has been a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ lineup, and losing him will be a significant blow, particularly when it comes to rebounding and post presence.

2. CJ Fredrick (Senior – NBA Draft or Transfer)

CJ Fredrick, a senior guard who transferred to Kentucky from Iowa before the 2021-2022 season, has been a reliable contributor for the Wildcats, particularly with his shooting ability. Fredrick was expected to provide Kentucky with an added layer of offense, especially from behind the arc. While Fredrick has shown flashes of brilliance during his time in Lexington, injuries have hampered his career and limited his ability to consistently play at a high level.

As a senior, Fredrick could choose to either enter the NBA Draft or pursue a transfer to another program in hopes of getting more playing time and visibility. Given his experience and shooting ability, he could be a valuable asset for a team looking for a veteran guard. Regardless of his choice, Fredrick’s departure would leave a noticeable hole in Kentucky’s backcourt, and the Wildcats would need to look for another shooter to replace him.

3. Kellan Grady (Graduation)

Kellan Grady is a senior guard who transferred to Kentucky from Davidson ahead of the 2021-2022 season. While Grady has had an up-and-down tenure in Lexington, his leadership and experience were key for the Wildcats during his time at Kentucky. Grady, known for his scoring ability and his leadership on the court, has seen his role fluctuate but has remained an important part of the Wildcats’ rotation.

As a senior, Grady’s college basketball career is coming to a close, and he is expected to graduate and move on from the program. While Grady may not be heading to the NBA, his leadership and experience will be missed by a relatively young Kentucky team, and the Wildcats will need to find another veteran guard who can step into a similar role.

4. Other Departures: Transfers and Walk-Ons

As with most college basketball teams, there are always a handful of players who choose to transfer or depart the program for various reasons. This could be due to a lack of playing time, a desire for a new opportunity, or a shift in the program’s direction. While Kentucky has not announced any additional major transfers yet, it is likely that some players may seek new opportunities elsewhere, as the Wildcats always attract top talent and bring in new recruits each year.

Additionally, some walk-on players may decide to leave, as it’s common for them to move on after their time with the team. While these departures may not have as much of an immediate impact on Kentucky’s lineup, they do add to the overall roster turnover that teams often experience during the off-season.

Who Might Return for Kentucky Basketball?

While the departures are significant, the question that excites Kentucky fans is: who might return to continue the program’s tradition of success? Returning players are crucial to the stability and continuity of a program, and Kentucky has some key players who could make a major impact in the 2024-2025 season if they decide to return.

1. TyTy Washington (Sophomore – NBA Draft)

TyTy Washington, a sophomore guard who emerged as one of Kentucky’s brightest stars this season, is a player who could leave early for the NBA Draft. Washington’s talent is undeniable, and his ability to control the game and create for his teammates makes him one of the most valuable players in Kentucky’s lineup.

While he has been a standout player for the Wildcats, there is a strong chance that he will declare for the NBA Draft after a solid season, as his draft stock is projected to be high. However, if Washington decides to return for another year, it would give Kentucky an immediate star in the backcourt and bolster their offensive attack.

2. Sahvir Wheeler (Junior – Possible Return or Transfer)

Sahvir Wheeler, a junior point guard, has been one of the key facilitators for Kentucky. After transferring from Georgia, Wheeler quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his quickness, passing ability, and leadership. He has shown flashes of brilliance as Kentucky’s floor general, but there have also been moments of inconsistency. Wheeler’s role in the offense has evolved over the course of the season, and while he has made valuable contributions, he might look to enter the NBA Draft or transfer to another program where he can develop further.

Wheeler’s decision will be crucial for Kentucky, as they need an experienced point guard to lead the offense in the upcoming season. If Wheeler returns, he would help solidify the Wildcats’ backcourt alongside other potential returners.

3. Jacob Toppin (Senior – Return for a Fifth Year)

Jacob Toppin, a senior forward, has proven himself to be one of Kentucky’s most versatile players. Known for his athleticism, defense, and ability to play multiple positions, Toppin has been a key contributor for the Wildcats this season. As a senior, Toppin has the option to return for a fifth year due to the NCAA’s COVID-19 eligibility ruling.

If Toppin decides to return, it would be a huge boost for Kentucky. His experience, leadership, and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a valuable asset to the Wildcats. Toppin’s presence would also provide much-needed stability for Kentucky, as they work to rebuild their roster for the upcoming season.

4. Antonio Reeves (Graduate Student – Potential Return for Another Year)

Antonio Reeves, a graduate transfer from Illinois State, has made an immediate impact for the Wildcats with his scoring ability and experience. Known for his ability to stretch the floor and score from deep, Reeves has become one of Kentucky’s most reliable shooters. As a graduate student, he has the option to return for another year, depending on how the season unfolds and whether he feels it’s the right choice for his career.

If Reeves returns, he would add veteran leadership and scoring depth to Kentucky’s backcourt, giving the Wildcats a potent weapon from the perimeter. His return would help Kentucky stay competitive in the SEC and strengthen their offensive firepower.

5. Freshmen and Emerging Players

One of the most exciting aspects of Kentucky’s future is the influx of talented freshmen and emerging players. Kentucky is known for its elite recruiting, and the incoming freshman class for the 2024-2025 season is expected to be filled with high-level prospects who could contribute immediately. Players like Chris Livingston, a versatile forward, and Skyy Clark, a highly touted point guard, could make an immediate impact.

Additionally, players who may not have had much of a role in the 2023-2024 season could step up in bigger ways next year. Freshmen who gained valuable experience and players who were developing during the season will be essential to the team’s success moving forward.