Kentucky Roster Heating Up: Lamar Wilkerson Visits Campus as Wildcats Build Preseason Powerhouse
The basketball buzz in Lexington is at an all-time high as Lamar Wilkerson, one of the most electric players in the transfer portal, officially visits the University of Kentucky this week. With the Wildcats already building one of the most formidable rosters in the nation, Wilkerson’s potential addition could vault Kentucky to preseason No. 1 or No. 2 status and establish them as early favorites for the 2025 national championship.
A Game-Changer in the Portal
Wilkerson, a 6-foot-4 senior guard, turned heads across the nation with his standout performance last season, averaging 14.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Known for his ability to score off the dribble, stretch defenses with his deep shooting range, and lock down opposing guards on the perimeter, Wilkerson brings a rare two-way impact that any top-tier program would covet.
His visit to Kentucky includes meetings with head coach John Calipari, tours of the Joe Craft Center and Rupp Arena, and opportunities to meet with returning and incoming players.
Sources close to the program report a strong mutual interest. “Lamar sees the vision here,” said a program insider. “He’s not just looking for a place to play—he’s looking for a program that can take him to the next level. Kentucky offers that.”
Wildcats Already Reloaded
Wilkerson’s interest in Kentucky comes as no surprise, considering the talent already assembled in Lexington. Coach Calipari and his staff have been relentless this offseason, pulling from the transfer portal and reeling in high-profile recruits.
So far, Kentucky’s 2025 roster includes:
Koby Brea (Graduate Transfer from Kentucky) – One of the most efficient perimeter shooters in the nation, averaging 11.6 PPG, 43.5% from beyond the arc, and 91.4% from the free-throw line during the 2024–25 season.
Returning core players – Familiar faces who understand the program’s culture, expectations, and are ready to lead.
Kentucky’s projected depth chart already features elite spacing, athleticism, and defensive potential, but adding a versatile combo guard like Wilkerson could take this squad to another level.
Wilkerson’s Fit: Versatility and Veteran Poise
What makes Wilkerson such a coveted addition is his ability to seamlessly fit into any lineup. He can run the offense when needed, play off the ball, guard multiple positions, and finish in transition. His presence would allow Calipari to experiment with bigger or smaller lineups without sacrificing production.
“He’s the type of player who plays older than his age,” said a former assistant coach who recruited Wilkerson in high school. “He’s poised under pressure, he doesn’t need the ball to be effective, and he’s fearless.”
Preseason Rankings: Kentucky Climbing Fast
With the current roster, Kentucky is already being mentioned in early top-5 projections. However, if Wilkerson joins, many analysts believe the Wildcats could challenge Kansas, Duke, and UConn for the preseason No. 1 spot.
ESPN’s Seth Greenberg recently commented, “Kentucky could have the deepest and most balanced team in the nation if they close the deal with Wilkerson. The mix of veterans and young talent is exactly what you need in March.”
What’s Next for Wilkerson?
The visit to Kentucky marks the final leg of Wilkerson’s recruitment journey, with decisions expected within the next few days. Other programs reportedly in the mix include Arkansas, Florida State, and USC, but insiders suggest that Kentucky has the edge following a well-organized and energizing campus experience.
