Explore six projected Kentucky basketball lineups for 2025-26—with and without Otega Oweh. See how Mark Pope’s system maximizes talent, depth, and versatility and what players must step up.

 

With the 2025-26 season on the horizon, the Kentucky Wildcats are poised to make serious noise under Mark Pope’s high-octane system. At the center of attention is Otega Oweh—Kentucky’s top scorer last season—who’s currently testing the NBA Draft waters. Should he return to Lexington, it could tip the scales toward a Final Four run. But even without him, the Wildcats’ revamped roster offers intriguing combinations.

 

Using the latest roster and performance data, here’s a look at three lineup options if Oweh returns—and three if he stays in the draft.

If Otega Oweh returns: Three lineups to dominate

Oweh was electric last season, leading Kentucky with 16.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. He shot 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from three, and 78.2% from the free-throw line. A two-way force with elite slashing ability and strong perimeter defense, his return would be a massive boost.

🔥 Lineup 1: The All-Around Firestorm

PG: Jaland Lowe

SG: Otega Oweh

SF: Kam Williams

PF: Mouhamed Dioubate

C: Jayden Quaintance

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How It Works:

This lineup blends athleticism, defensive versatility, and explosive scoring. Lowe, the Pitt transfer, averaged 6.0 assists and sets up Oweh’s drives while Williams offers wing versatility. Dioubate brings muscle and rebounding, and when healthy Quaintance is a rim-running, shot-blocking anchor.

Strengths:

Elite Defense: Lowe and Oweh can pressure ball handlers; Dioubate and Quaintance protect the rim.

Transition Threat: This group thrives in the open floor, with Lowe’s vision and Oweh’s quick first step leading fast breaks.

Switchability: Defensive versatility across all five spots.

Weaknesses:

Perimeter Shooting: Outside of Oweh, spacing could be tight if Williams and Lowe don’t knock down shots.

Inexperience: Quaintance and Williams may need time to adjust to SEC intensity especially as Jayden gets back into basketball shape.

Vibe:

Fast, loud, and relentless. If the shots fall, this lineup is terrifying.

🎷 Lineup 2: The Veteran Vibe

PG: Denzel Aberdeen

SG: Otega Oweh

SF: Jasper Johnson

PF: Trent Noah

C: Brandon Garrison

How It Works:

This group leans into experience, shooting, and leadership. Aberdeen, a Florida transfer, brings defense and ball movement. Johnson is a five-star freshman with 15+ PPG upside. Noah offers floor spacing, and Garrison is a steady, returning big man.

Strengths:

Perimeter Scoring: Noah’s 38.5% high school 3PT shooting complements Oweh and Johnson. His shot was not falling towards the end of last season, but he is putting in big time work.

Continuity: Garrison’s return and Oweh’s leadership ease chemistry concerns.

Weaknesses:

Interior Defense: Garrison is capable but not dominant defensively. Noah may be mismatched against physical SEC power forwards.

Shot Creation: Aberdeen isn’t a scoring threat, so Johnson and Oweh must carry the load.

Vibe:

Think smooth jazz—fluid, efficient, and quietly lethal. But can it hold up in the physical grind of March?

🚨 Lineup 3: The Big Blue Blitz

PG: Jaland Lowe

SG: Jasper Johnson

SF: Otega Oweh

PF: Malachi Moreno

C: Jayden Quaintance

How It Works:

This lineup goes big and bold. Oweh shifts to the wing, flanked by two five-star bigs in Moreno and Quaintance. Lowe initiates offense while Johnson handles perimeter scoring.

Strengths:

Paint Control: Moreno and Quaintance form a shot-blocking, rebounding wall.

Scoring Potential: Johnson and Oweh could combine for 30+ on any given night.

Length: Every position boasts size and reach.

Jayden Quaintance

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Weaknesses:

Mobility: Bigs could struggle with pick-and-roll defense and transition coverage.

Floor Spacing: With two non-shooting bigs, offensive spacing might shrink.

Vibe:

This is your “we’re taking over” lineup—towering, terrifying, and tough to handle. But it must stay agile to survive stretch offenses.

 

If Otega Oweh Stays in the NBA Draft: Three Lineups to Adapt

Without Oweh’s 16.2 PPG and defensive edge, Kentucky must spread the scoring load and rely on its depth. The talent is there—it’s just a matter of who steps up in the clutch.

🚀 Lineup 1: The Freshman Frenzy

PG: Jaland Lowe

SG: Jasper Johnson

SF: Kam Williams

PF: Mouhamed Dioubate

C: Jayden Quaintance

How It Works:

Lowe and Johnson become the offensive core. Williams fills Oweh’s role as a slasher and defender. Dioubate and Quaintance energize the frontcourt with relentless motor and size.

Strengths:

Youthful Energy: Athleticism fuels Pope’s uptempo style.

Balanced Playmaking: Lowe runs the offense; Johnson brings scoring punch.