IT IS OFFICIAL: Kentucky Wildcat 2025-26 Roster!

This is not just another year in Lexington—it’s the dawn of a new era. Let’s break down the 2025-26 Kentucky Wildcats roster and what fans can expect from a team that’s built to contend from day one.

 RETURNING PLAYERS: CORE STRENGTH

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the offseason was the number of players who chose to return for another year in the blue and white. In recent years, Kentucky has been known for its “one-and-done” approach, but the 2025-26 roster brings with it something the Wildcats have often lacked: continuity.

 D.J. Wagner (Senior, Guard)

After a rollercoaster junior season, Wagner returns for his senior campaign with something to prove. Once heralded as the No. 1 high school player in the country, Wagner showed flashes of brilliance last season but struggled with consistency. His decision to stay rather than declare for the NBA Draft reflects his commitment to finishing what he started at Kentucky.

“This is my home. I want to win here. I want to lead,” Wagner said at media day.

Expect Wagner to take on a leadership role, both on and off the court. With improved shot selection and renewed confidence, he could become one of the most dangerous guards in the SEC.

 Aaron Bradshaw (Junior, Forward/Center)

Bradshaw tested the NBA waters before ultimately deciding to return. The 7-footer has added muscle to his frame over the offseason and is primed to be a force in the paint. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim gives Kentucky a true modern-day big man.

Bradshaw averaged 9.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 2024-25.

With more consistency and fewer injuries, Bradshaw could be a breakout star.

 Adou Thiero (Junior, Guard/Forward)

Thiero’s versatility will be invaluable this year. He can guard multiple positions and has developed into one of the most athletic wings in the conference. Look for him to play a key role off the bench or even start in small-ball lineups.

 STAYING LOCAL: IN-STATE TALENT MAKES A STATEMENT

 Reed Sheppard (Sophomore, Guard)

The pride of London, Kentucky, Sheppard is one of the most beloved players on the team. His basketball IQ, court vision, and clutch shooting earned him SEC Freshman of the Year honors. Despite rumors of a potential transfer, Sheppard remained loyal to Big Blue Nation.

“I never thought about leaving. This is where I belong,” Sheppard said.

Expect him to take on more ball-handling duties this season, possibly even starting at point guard alongside Wagner.

 TRANSFER PORTAL WINS: IMMEDIATE IMPACT PLAYERS

Mark Pope wasted no time in the transfer portal, adding depth and experience to a roster that desperately needed veteran presence.

 Koby Brea (Senior, Guard – Transfer from Dayton)

Arguably the best three-point shooter in the portal, Brea brings elite shooting to a Kentucky team that struggled from beyond the arc last season. He shot over 46% from three at Dayton and will provide instant offense off the bench or as a starter.

 Brandon Garrison (Sophomore, Forward – Transfer from Oklahoma State)

A former five-star prospect, Garrison adds length and rebounding to the frontcourt. He averaged 8.8 points and 7.3 rebounds in his freshman season and has the tools to grow into a double-double machine.

Jaxson Robinson (Graduate, Guard – Transfer from BYU)

Following Pope from BYU, Robinson brings leadership, elite perimeter defense, and the ability to score at all three levels. He knows Pope’s system and will likely be a critical veteran voice in the locker room.

 Oumar Ballo (Graduate, Center – Transfer from Arizona)

This might be Kentucky’s biggest portal win—literally. At 7-foot, 260 pounds, Ballo averaged 13.6 points and 10.1 rebounds at Arizona last season and was one of the top centers in the country. He gives Kentucky a true enforcer in the paint.

 THE 2025 RECRUITING CLASS: FRESH BLOOD

Kentucky’s recruiting class ranks among the top five nationally. Pope landed several top-50 players who fit his system perfectly.

Cayden Boozer (Guard – 5-star)

Yes, the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer. Cayden brings size (6’4”), strength, and poise to the point guard position. While he may not start right away, he’ll push for big minutes and could be the floor general of the future.

Carter Bryant (Wing – 5-star)

A long, athletic scorer with a smooth jumper, Bryant’s upside is off the charts. His game draws comparisons to Brandon Ingram, and he will thrive in transition.

Somto Cyril (Center – 4-star)

Cyril is a physical specimen. Though raw offensively, his motor, defense, and rebounding make him a high-impact freshman off the bench.

 Travis Perry (Guard – 4-star, Kentucky Mr. Basketball)

The state’s all-time leading scorer chose to stay home. Perry won fans over with his toughness and scoring prowess, and he’s ready to fight for minutes as a freshman.

 COACHING STAFF: THE MARK POPE ERA BEGINS

Mark Pope (Head Coach)

Pope takes the reins from John Calipari, who left for Arkansas after 15 seasons. A former Kentucky Wildcat himself, Pope brings a refreshing new approach built on shooting, spacing, and ball movement. After success at BYU, where his teams consistently ranked among the nation’s best in offensive efficiency, he is now tasked with reviving Kentucky’s dominance.

“We’re going to play hard, fast, and smart,” Pope said. “We’re going to wear that jersey with pride.”

Pope has surrounded himself with an elite staff, including:

• Cody Fueger, offensive guru from BYU.
• Mark Madsen, NBA veteran and rebounding specialist.
• Chin Coleman, retained from the Calipari era for recruiting continuity.

 PROJECTED STARTING LINEUP

Here’s how the starting five might look on opening night:

1. PG – D.J. Wagner (Sr.)
2. SG – Reed Sheppard (So.)
3. SF – Carter Bryant (Fr.)
4. PF – Aaron Bradshaw (Jr.)
5. C – Oumar Ballo (Gr.)

Key Bench Players:

• Koby Brea – Perimeter shooting specialist
• Adou Thiero – Defensive Swiss army knife
• Brandon Garrison – Physical presence off the bench
• Jaxson Robinson – Sixth man who could close games
• Cayden Boozer – High-upside freshman point guard

 BIG BLUE BUZZ: WHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING

Fans have embraced the new-look roster and coaching staff with cautious optimism.

“It feels like Kentucky basketball again,” said fan Matt Jenkins of Louisville. “We’ve got a team that looks built to win now and later.”

Social media has been ablaze with anticipation. Pope’s approachability and energy have made him a quick fan favorite, and season ticket sales are already up 15% compared to last year.

 2025-26 SCHEDULE PREVIEW: SEC SHOWDOWNS AHEAD

Kentucky’s non-conference slate is loaded, including marquee matchups against:

• Kansas (Champions Classic)
• Michigan State
• Gonzaga (home-and-home series)
• Louisville (Battle for the Bluegrass)

In SEC play, Kentucky will face stiff competition from:

• Arkansas (now led by John Calipari)
• Tennessee (defending SEC champs)
• Alabama (Final Four team in 2025)
• Auburn (loaded with returning talent)

Last season ended with a disappointing second-round exit from the NCAA Tournament. For a program with Kentucky’s history and fanbase, that’s unacceptable. This year’s squad, however, has the makeup of a team that can go deep into March.

What Sets This Team Apart?

• Balance between youth and experience
• Depth at every position
• Elite shooting from multiple spots
• Strong interior defense with Ballo and Bradshaw

Key Questions:

• Can Wagner take the leap into All-American territory?
• Will the freshmen adapt quickly to the college game?
• Can Pope handle the pressure of the SEC in Year 1?

It’s official: the 2025-26 Kentucky Wildcats are locked and loaded. With a compelling mix of returning stars, new faces, and a head coach eager to return the program to national prominence, the Wildcats are poised for a memorable season.

For the first time in years, Kentucky fans aren’t just hoping for success—they’re expecting it.

The banners on the walls of Rupp Arena aren’t just for show.
The Wildcats are back. And they’re coming for it all.