One of the biggest pieces of Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball’ 2026-27 roster has officially made his decision, as Malachi Moreno will forgo the 2026 NBA Draft and return to Kentucky for his sophomore season.
One of the biggest decisions surrounding Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball’ offseason has officially been made, as Malachi Moreno announced he will withdraw from the 2026 NBA Draft and return to Kentucky for his sophomore season.
The Georgetown, Kentucky native spent the spring testing the NBA Draft waters after an impressive freshman campaign in Lexington. While Moreno was initially viewed as a long-term developmental prospect, his stock steadily climbed throughout the pre-draft process thanks to strong private workouts and impressive in-gym performances.
As time went on, Moreno proved he could hold his own against elite competition, showcasing his mobility, rim protection, rebounding instincts and improving offensive skill set. The 7-foot center reportedly drew interest from several franchises projected to select within the first 20 picks of the draft, including the Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics.
Despite the growing NBA buzz, Moreno ultimately decided another year in college basketball would better position him for long-term success at the professional level. His return gives Kentucky a massive boost entering the 2026-27 season, as the Wildcats retain one of the SEC’s most promising young big men and a potential centerpiece on both ends of the floor.
Moreno’s decision is also a significant win for head coach Mark Pope, who continues building momentum in Lexington heading into his second season leading the program. With Moreno back in the fold, Kentucky immediately strengthens its frontcourt depth, interior defense and rebounding presence while adding valuable continuity to a roster expected to compete nationally.
During his freshman season, Moreno quickly established himself as one of Kentucky’s most reliable contributors. His combination of size, touch around the basket and defensive instincts made him a difficult matchup throughout SEC play, and many evaluators believe another collegiate season could elevate him into lottery-pick territory in 2027.
Ultimately, the former state champion and his camp felt that the deal offered from Mark Pope and his staff was just too sweet, with the idea of developing even further and potentially becoming a lottery pick in next year’s draft making logical sense for both sides.
In his freshman season, Moreno averaged 7.8 points per game, 6.3 rebounds per game and 1.5 blocks per game, all on 58.2% shooting. As many assume, this was just a trial for what he can become on the court.
Videos circulated on social media of Moreno hitting jump shots from deep range, visibly looking stronger and more confident in his decision making. Although he decided to not participate in the NBA Combine, a strong indicator for his return to college, it would’ve certainly been interesting to see what type of statline he could’ve produced against the league’s future stars.
Nonetheless, Moreno is back in the blue and white for one more go at No. 9 with Pope and his new teammates. This time, he won’t be predicted as the third best center on team, or plagued with the freshman tendencies – he’ll be ready to start at the five from the moment he arrives in Lexington.
