Who Will Be Kentucky’s Best Player Next Season?
BBN’s Future May Belong to a Rising Star
With the offseason winding down and the 2025-26 season looming, Kentucky fans have a burning question on their minds:
Who will be the Wildcats’ best player next season?
There’s no shortage of candidates. Mark Pope has assembled one of the deepest, most versatile rosters in the country a unique blend of experience, youth, and raw talent. While some already come with national championship experience, others are poised to chase their first taste of glory in Kentucky blue.
Let’s break down the contenders.
Otega Oweh: The Two-Way Engine
If Oweh returns, there’s a strong argument that he could be Kentucky’s best player and maybe even one of the best in the country. His athleticism, defensive instincts, and improving offensive game give him serious two-way potential. A former Oklahoma standout who flourished under Pope last season, Oweh brings toughness, leadership, and a chip on his shoulder.
He’s a lockdown defender who can guard 1 through 3, and his slashing ability makes him dangerous in transition. With one more year to fine-tune his jumper and decision-making, Oweh could become Kentucky’s go-to guy when the lights are brightest.
Trent Noah: Kentucky’s Silent Assassin
Don’t sleep on Trent Noah. The in-state freshman arrived with less fanfare than some others, but his skillset is tailor-made for Pope’s system. A versatile wing with a strong frame, great basketball IQ, and a reliable jumper, Noah has the makings of a breakout freshman contributor.
He’s not flashy, but he does the little things: spacing the floor, making the extra pass, defending multiple positions, and hitting timely shots. He’s the kind of glue guy that championship teams are built around and his ceiling may be higher than anyone realizes.
Collin Chandler: The Wildcard
After two years away on a mission, Collin Chandler is one of the most fascinating players in college basketball. He was once a Top-40 recruit, and now he’s back, more mature, stronger, and ready to showcase the elite athleticism and scoring instincts that made him such a coveted prospect.
If he adjusts quickly to the college game, Chandler could become a high-usage weapon for Pope, capable of creating off the dribble and knocking down big shots. Kentucky needs a closer and Chandler might grow into that role.
Brandon Garrison: The Backbone
Transferred from Oklahoma State, Garrison is a classic Mark Pope big smart, unselfish, defensively sound, and willing to do the dirty work. At 6’11” with a college-ready frame, Garrison gives Kentucky a true anchor in the paint.
He won’t need to be the leading scorer, but his shot-blocking, rebounding, and interior presence will be essential. Think of him as the stabilizer especially with so many young pieces on the roster. If Kentucky makes a deep tournament run, Garrison’s role will be enormous.
Incoming Freshmen & Transfers: The X-Factor Group
Kentucky’s newcomers are loaded with promise and one or more could emerge as a surprise star:
- Jaland Lowe: The Houston transfer is a smooth, cerebral point guard with elite vision and pace. He could be the floor general Pope needs to unlock the offense.
- Kam Williams: An under-the-radar combo guard who thrives in space, Williams is a dynamic playmaker and shot creator.
- Denzel Aberdeen: The Florida transfer adds toughness and experience to the backcourt rotation. He can defend and score in bunches.
- Jayden Quaintance: A five-star reclass big man with absurd physical tools. He’s still raw, but his athleticism and upside are unmatched. If he develops quickly, he could be a game-changer.
- Reece Potter: The skilled 7-footer redshirted last season but has potential as a stretch big who can shoot and space the floor. His development could surprise fans this year.
The Bottom Line: Oweh Leads, but the Pack Is Deep
If Otega Oweh returns, he’s the most complete, battle-tested player on the roster and likely the emotional leader. But don’t be surprised if Chandler or Garrison push for that title. Even Trent Noah or one of the freshmen could seize the moment.
This isn’t a one-star team. It’s a squad built for balance, depth, and versatility. The real answer to “Who will be Kentucky’s best player?” may change from game to game but come March, the Wildcats will have more than one hero to count on.
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