The Kentucky Wildcats, led by head coach Mark Pope, have been one of the most aggressive programs in the college basketball transfer portal this offseason. With multiple commitments already locked in and a strong group of incoming freshmen, Pope is quickly putting his stamp on the team heading into year two in Lexington. However, the shooting guard role remains unresolved. Kentucky is still assessing its options as uncertainty surrounds Otega Oweh’s status with the squad. A new name gaining attention is Kimani Hamilton, a skilled forward transferring from High Point University.
A Promising Transfer Portal Option
Hamilton’s path has been far from ordinary. Once a top-100 recruit out of Clinton, Mississippi, he began his college career at Mississippi State. Limited playing time as a freshman led him to transfer to High Point, where he thrived as a focal point of the offense. Over the last two years, Hamilton emerged as a reliable scorer and was twice recognized with All-Big South honors.
In the 2023–24 season, Hamilton started all 35 games for High Point and played a pivotal role in helping the team reach the NCAA Tournament. He put up averages of 13.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, shooting a career-best 52% from the floor. Though he only hit 32.2% of his three-point attempts, he proved effective driving to the rim, absorbing contact, and creating plays. His 6-foot-7 frame and two-way offensive skill set provide the kind of versatility that would mesh well with Kentucky’s guard-heavy lineup.
How Hamilton Aligns with Pope’s Strategy
Kentucky has already brought in several high-profile transfers, including Mo Dioubate, Kam Williams, Jaland Lowe, Jayden Quaintance, and Andrija Jelavic. Alongside these additions, a top-tier recruiting class led by 5-star guard Jasper Johnson and 4-star forward Malachi Moreno further boosts the team’s depth. Still, with Oweh’s future uncertain, the backcourt could use reinforcement—potentially from Hamilton.
While Hamilton isn’t a standard shooting guard, his combination of length, agility, and scoring ability fits well within Pope’s preferred style—fast-paced, well-spaced, and flexible. His veteran presence and willingness to adapt could add much-needed depth and versatility to a still-evolving roster. Hamilton has reportedly been contacted by several programs since entering the portal.
As Kentucky works to complete its roster puzzle, Hamilton stands out as a potential piece. If he commits, it would mark another calculated move by Pope, aimed at building a versatile and competitive team capable of contending deep into March.
