The Kentucky Wildcats’ 2024-25 season ended in disappointment in the Sweet 16, losing to SEC rival Tennessee, 78-65, at Lucas Oil Stadium. In Mark Pope’s first year as head coach, the team showed potential but ultimately fell short of championship hopes. Lamont Butler and Andrew Carr had advice for future Kentucky players: “If you’re in the transfer portal and need a new home, choose Kentucky.”
Veteran Departures and Leadership Impact
The Wildcats say goodbye to two key seniors, Lamont Butler and Andrew Carr, both of whom played vital roles this season. Butler ended his collegiate career on a high note, scoring 18 points against Tennessee while shooting 70% from the field. Carr contributed consistently on both offense and defense. Their exit creates a leadership gap that Pope must address through a mix of returning players and incoming talent.
Carr wasted no time promoting Pope’s program to potential transfers, stating, “If you’re in the transfer portal and need a new home, choose Kentucky.” His endorsement reflects confidence in Pope’s system, which will be tested as UK rebuilds its roster for the next season. Andrew Carr: “If you’re in the transfer portal… choose Kentucky.”
Potential Returnees and Key Building Blocks
While Kentucky loses experienced players, several key underclassmen are expected to return. The most significant is Oweh, who led the team in scoring at 16.2 points per game and was a defensive anchor with 1.6 steals per game. ESPN draft projections place Oweh outside the top 90 prospects, increasing the likelihood of his return to Lexington. With lucrative NIL deals available, staying another year could be an appealing option for the talented guard.
Other key returnees include sophomore forward Brandon Garrison and freshmen Collin Chandler, Trent Noah, and Travis Perry. Their development will be vital as Pope heads into his second year. Koby Brea chose Kentucky over Duke, Kansas, UConn, and UNC in the transfer portal. The three-point specialist believes any player with similar options should make the same choice. His reason? Mark Pope is “the greatest coach in the world.”
Recruiting and Transfer Portal Targets
Concerns about recruiting followed Pope’s hiring, but he has already proven critics wrong by securing a strong 2025 class. Five-star recruits Jasper Johnson (guard) and Malachi Moreno (center) lead the group, while four-star combo guard Acaden Lewis adds depth. The class ranks No. 6 nationally, with the potential to rise if consensus five-star forward Nate Ament commits. Beyond high school prospects, the transfer portal remains a key tool for Pope to add experienced talent. With top-tier facilities, a passionate fan base, and NIL opportunities, Kentucky remains an attractive destination for impact players. Andrew Carr agrees: “If you’re in the transfer portal and need a new home, choose Kentucky. I’m telling you, choose Kentucky!” Pope noted that Butler and Carr joked at practice about who would become a head coach first.
Looking Ahead
With a strong recruiting class, key returnees, and an aggressive approach in the transfer portal, Kentucky is positioned to stay competitive on a national level. Pope’s first year built a solid foundation, but the next step is integrating new talent and making a deeper postseason run in 2025-26. One thing is certain: expectations in Lexington remain sky-high, and the Wildcats are ready to reload.
