Kentucky’s Travis Perry makes late decision to enter the transfer portal
Kentucky freshman guard Travis Perry has announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal, marking the end of his tenure with the Wildcats after just one season. A standout in Kentucky high school basketball and the state’s all-time leading scorer, Perry struggled to find a consistent role with the Wildcats, averaging 2.7 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists in 9.8 minutes per game across 31 appearances, including four starts. Initially considered a potential redshirt candidate, Perry’s playing time increased due to a series of injuries on Kentucky’s roster. Despite indicating an intention to return following Kentucky’s season-ending loss to Tennessee, Perry’s transfer comes as a surprise. With Kentucky actively seeking reinforcements to build depth through the transfer portal, Perry likely opted to seek more playing time at another program, potentially at a mid-major school. His departure leaves Kentucky with another roster spot to fill for the 2025–26 season.
Perry’s decision to transfer comes amid a period of significant roster turnover for Kentucky. The Wildcats have added several key players, including Florida transfer guard Denzel Aberdeen, and other notable transfers such as Jayden Quaintance from Arizona State, Mo Dioubate from Alabama, Jaland Lowe from Pittsburgh, and Kam Williams from Tulane. International recruit Andrija Jelavic and local talents Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno also bolster the roster.
As of April 21, 2025, the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team, under head coach Mark Pope, continues to shape its 2025-26 roster following a successful first season. The team has added several key players, including Florida transfer guard Denzel Aberdeen, and other notable transfers such as Jayden Quaintance from Arizona State, Mo Dioubate from Alabama, Jaland Lowe from Pittsburgh, and Kam Williams from Tulane. International recruit Andrija Jelavic and local talents Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno also bolster the roster.
Perry’s departure leaves Kentucky with another roster spot to fill for the 2025–26 season. The Wildcats currently have 11 scholarship players, possibly increasing to 12 if Otega Oweh returns from the NBA Draft. Including walk-on Zach Tow, the total sits at 13, leaving space for two more players depending on roster cap regulations still under review due to a proposed House settlement. 8
Perry’s decision to transfer is a reminder of the challenges that come with managing a roster in the modern era of college basketball. With the transfer portal providing players with more freedom to move between programs, coaches must constantly adapt to changes and find ways to build cohesive teams. For Perry, the move represents an opportunity to find a program where he can play a more significant role and continue to develop his skills. For Kentucky, it means another opportunity to bring in talent that fits the team’s needs and culture.
As the Wildcats prepare for the 2025–26 season, they will look to integrate their new additions and build upon the foundation established in Coach Pope’s first year. With a mix of experienced transfers and promising recruits, Kentucky aims to remain competitive in the SEC and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. Perry’s departure is a part of that ongoing process, reflecting the dynamic nature of college basketball rosters in today’s game.
