NEXT IN LINE: Projected 2025-26 Kentucky Basketball Starting Five — Mark Pope’s Blueprint for a New Era
LEXINGTON, KY — A new dawn is breaking in the Bluegrass State, and with it comes a fresh vision, renewed energy, and the unmistakable roar of anticipation echoing through the halls of Rupp Arena. The Mark Pope era has officially begun at Kentucky, and fans are itching to see what the former Wildcat player-turned-head coach has in store.
After a whirlwind offseason full of roster movement, transfer portal coups, and high-profile recruiting wins, Pope is shaping the future of Kentucky basketball—and if the pieces fall into place, the 2025–26 Wildcats could be one of the most balanced and dynamic teams in the nation.
So what might Kentucky’s starting five look like next season? Here’s an early projection of who could take the floor for the first tip-off of the new era—and how each piece fits into Pope’s bold blueprint.
Point Guard: Travis Perry — The Kentucky-Born Floor General
One of the most exciting storylines heading into next season is the rise of Travis Perry, the in-state phenom who captured national attention by becoming Kentucky’s all-time leading high school scorer. Perry’s game is equal parts gritty and polished, with court vision beyond his years and a deadly outside shot.
Coach Pope values toughness and basketball IQ—two things Perry has in spades. He may be young, but don’t be surprised if this homegrown talent grabs the reins and runs the show as a true freshman point guard.
“Perry plays with the kind of edge and maturity that makes coaches trust him in big moments,” said a former UK assistant. “He’s built for this stage.”
Shooting Guard: Kerr Kriisa — The Fiery Veteran with Swagger
After a brief but electric stint at Kentucky, Kerr Kriisa is back and ready to lead. Known for his flamethrower shooting, vocal leadership, and high-energy play, the former Arizona and West Virginia standout brings a veteran presence and postseason experience to the backcourt.
Pope loves spacing and tempo, and Kriisa’s ability to stretch the floor and ignite transition opportunities makes him a key weapon. Expect him to be the heartbeat of the offense—and a fan favorite for his charisma.
Small Forward: Collin Chandler — The Breakout Candidate
Former four-star recruit Collin Chandler is poised for a breakout under Pope’s player-centric system. After returning from a two-year LDS mission, Chandler has worked tirelessly to regain his rhythm, and early offseason reports suggest he’s turning heads with his improved athleticism and confidence.
A 6’5” wing with scoring upside, Chandler can slash, shoot, and defend—traits that make him a perfect fit for the kind of switch-heavy, up-tempo style Pope plans to implement. Don’t be shocked if he becomes one of Kentucky’s most surprising stars.
Power Forward: Otega Oweh — The Defensive Enforcer
Former Oklahoma standout Otega Oweh brings toughness, versatility, and athleticism to the Wildcats’ frontcourt. Known for his tenacious perimeter defense and high motor, Oweh is a matchup nightmare for opponents on both ends of the floor.
Pope has hinted at building around positionless basketball, and Oweh fits the mold. He can guard four positions, finish above the rim, and even knock down a mid-range jumper. His experience and physicality will anchor Kentucky’s defense.
Center: Amari Williams — The Anchor in the Paint
Every great team needs a steady presence in the post, and Amari Williams, the 6’10” Drexel transfer, fits that bill. A three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year, Williams is a rebounding machine and rim protector who brings size and maturity to the front line.
Offensively, he has a soft touch around the rim and can stretch the floor just enough to keep defenses honest. He’ll be the enforcer down low and the vocal leader Kentucky needs on the interior.
“He’s the kind of big you win with in March,” said an SEC analyst. “Smart, physical, and no nonsense.”
Key Reserves and Depth to Watch
Billy Richmond, an explosive wing with a pro-level motor, could see big minutes off the bench.
Lamont Butler, a transfer with Final Four experience at San Diego State, adds another layer of leadership and lockdown defense.
Jayden Quaintance? Rumors continue to swirl about the five-star big man potentially joining the fold, which would add a massive boost to Kentucky’s frontcourt if he commits.
Mark Pope’s Blueprint: Built for Now, Designed for March
What makes this projected lineup so intriguing isn’t just the individual talent—it’s the chemistry, experience, and versatility. Pope isn’t trying to replicate Calipari’s one-and-done model. He’s building something different: a team that blends youth with maturity, flash with fundamentals.
Expect more motion offense, high ball screens, five-out spacing, and defensive schemes that rely on switching and length. Pope wants his teams to be tough, unselfish, and built for the grind—and this group fits that identity.
Final Thoughts
While it’s still early in the offseason, the vision is becoming clearer. Kentucky fans are known for their high standards, and rightly so. But with Mark Pope at the helm and this core group in place, there’s a growing sense of belief that the Cats are on the cusp of something special.
The Mark Pope era isn’t just about a fresh face on the sidelines—it’s about rekindling Kentucky’s fire and building a program that can win now and last for years to come.
Next in
line? Maybe. Next in dominance? Don’t count them out.
