FUTURE STARS: Which Kentucky Underclassmen Could Emerge as Key Players in 2025–26?
By [Your Name]
April 6, 2025
LEXINGTON, KY — With another rollercoaster season in the books and several key players headed to the NBA Draft or entering the transfer portal—including the surprise departure of veteran guard Kerr Kriisa—Kentucky basketball finds itself once again at a familiar crossroads. But while questions loom over roster depth and leadership, the spotlight is now shifting to the program’s young blood: a promising group of underclassmen poised to take center stage in the 2025–26 season.
Head coach John Calipari, never a stranger to roster turnover, has built a reputation on developing future stars from raw, high-potential talent. And with Kentucky’s legacy of elite player development, all eyes are on the underclassmen who could be the next in a long line of Wildcat greats.
Here are five underclassmen who could rise from role players to cornerstone figures in Kentucky’s chase for a national title next season:
1. DJ Wagner – Sophomore Guard
After a freshman season filled with flashes of brilliance, DJ Wagner returns with unfinished business. The highly-touted combo guard averaged 11.7 points and 3.9 assists in his debut campaign, showcasing explosive speed, a knack for attacking the rim, and the ability to create his own shot.
However, inconsistencies and turnover issues sometimes limited his impact in big moments. Now with a year of experience under his belt and more responsibility on his shoulders following Kriisa’s exit, Wagner could be the engine that powers Kentucky’s offense in 2025–26.
“DJ’s ceiling is as high as anyone’s in college basketball,” said Coach Calipari. “He’s growing into a leader, and you’re going to see a more polished, more confident version of him next season.”
2. Aaron Bradshaw – Sophomore Forward/Center
At 7’1”, Aaron Bradshaw has the tools to become a dominant two-way force. A shot-blocking anchor and lob threat, Bradshaw gave glimpses of his potential with averages of 6.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game last season, despite limited minutes due to early-season injuries.
Expect those numbers to skyrocket as he becomes the full-time starter in the paint. With improved conditioning and a developing mid-range shot, Bradshaw is widely projected as a breakout candidate who could anchor Kentucky’s interior defense while becoming a reliable offensive weapon.
3. Justin Edwards – Sophomore Wing
Long, athletic, and quietly improving, Justin Edwards might be Kentucky’s best-kept secret. The 6’7” wing showed flashes of brilliance off the bench, particularly with his perimeter defense and slashing ability. While his shooting numbers were modest—8.1 points per game on 41% shooting—his potential as a versatile two-way player has scouts intrigued.
With a likely starting role in 2025–26, Edwards could become the team’s X-factor, capable of guarding multiple positions, finishing in transition, and stretching the floor as a developing shooter.
“Justin’s IQ, work ethic, and versatility are off the charts,” said assistant coach Orlando Antigua. “He could become the glue that holds everything together.”
4. Reed Sheppard – Sophomore Guard
Arguably the most exciting fan favorite among the underclassmen, Reed Sheppard returns after a freshman season that exceeded expectations. Known for his high basketball IQ, three-point shooting, and relentless hustle, Sheppard averaged 9.9 points and 3.4 assists per game while shooting over 42% from beyond the arc.
His poise under pressure and defensive instincts quickly earned him a spot in Calipari’s rotation. Now, with added muscle and a growing leadership presence, Sheppard could evolve into a key starter and emotional leader of the team.
5. Rob Dillingham – Sophomore Guard
Explosive, electric, and unpredictable—in all the best ways—Rob Dillingham is the kind of player who can change a game in a matter of minutes. While his freshman campaign was up and down, he made highlight reels across the country for his speed, handles, and daring shot selection.
Dillingham’s challenge moving forward is efficiency and control. If he can harness his talent within the team framework, he has the ability to be one of the most dangerous guards in the nation.
“Rob has star power written all over him,” Calipari said. “We just want to keep sharpening his decision-making and turn him into a complete guard.”
A New Era, Same Expectations
While Kentucky loses veteran voices and proven talent, the core of next season’s roster will be built around this explosive group of underclassmen. They’re young, hungry, and ready to write their own chapter in the school’s legendary history.
Calipari, who’s led numerous one-and-done squads to deep tournament runs, is once again betting on potential—and this time, it’s homegrown.
“These kids are ready,” Calipari said. “We’ve seen what they can do in flashes. Now it’s time for them to shine over 40 minutes, every night, in front of the world.”
As summer workouts loom and rosters begin to take shape across the country, one thing is certain: Kentucky’s future isn’t waiting—it’s already here.
