Malachi Moreno Dominates KY/IN All-Star Game with 22 Points and 14 Rebounds, Earns MVP Honors in Front of Future Kentucky Teammates
In a dazzling showcase of size, skill, and star potential, Malachi Moreno put the basketball world on notice Saturday night, delivering a dominant performance in the annual Kentucky-Indiana All-Star Game. The 7-foot future Kentucky Wildcats center poured in 22 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, securing MVP honors as Kentucky rolled to a statement win over Indiana, 94–81.
And he did it all with several of his future University of Kentucky teammates watching courtside — a preview of what Big Blue Nation hopes will be the start of a special era in Lexington.
🏀 A Star Among Stars
Held at a packed Freedom Hall in Louisville, the KY/IN All-Star Game is a long-standing tradition showcasing the top high school basketball talent from both states. But this year, it quickly became the Malachi Moreno show.
The Scott County product and Kentucky Mr. Basketball finalist was simply unstoppable in the paint, using his length and footwork to control the boards and finish with authority around the rim. He also flashed his expanding offensive arsenal, knocking down mid-range jumpers and anchoring the defense with multiple shot contests.
“Malachi dominated on both ends of the floor,” said Kentucky All-Stars head coach Darnell Williams. “He played with poise, power, and purpose. That’s why he’s going to be special at the next level.”
👀 Future Wildcats in the Building
What made the performance even more special was the presence of current and incoming Kentucky players, including five-star guard Jasper Johnson and UK head coach Mark Pope, who made the trip to watch their incoming big man put on a clinic.
“That’s our guy,” Johnson said after the game. “We’re building something at Kentucky, and seeing Malachi go off like that just proves we’ve got a monster in the middle.”
Moreno, who committed to Kentucky earlier this year as part of Pope’s impressive 2025 recruiting class, has drawn comparisons to former UK greats like Anthony Davis and Willie Cauley-Stein for his rim protection, mobility, and court awareness.
🧠 Mature Beyond His Years
Despite the spotlight, Moreno remained humble after the game, crediting his teammates and coaches for putting him in position to succeed.
“It was a fun night,” he said. “I just wanted to play hard and represent Kentucky. But this is only the beginning. I’m ready to get to Lexington and start working with Coach Pope and the guys.”
With his rare combination of size, skill, and maturity, Moreno is already being projected as a future first-round NBA Draft pick. But for now, his focus remains on helping bring banner No. 9 to Rupp Arena.
🔮 What’s Next
Malachi Moreno will officially join the Wildcats later this summer as Kentucky looks to return to national prominence under the new regime of Coach Pope. Expectations are already sky-high, and with talents like Moreno leading the way, there’s growing belief that Kentucky basketball is heading toward a powerful resurgence.
If Saturday night was any indication, Malachi Moreno is more than ready for the next level — and the rest of college basketball better take notice.
