Homegrown Star: Kentucky’s Malachi Moreno Dominates at Chris Brickley Invitational and Makes BBN Proud
The sun shines a little brighter in Kentucky this week and it’s not just the spring weather.
It’s the spotlight that’s beginning to follow one of the state’s own: Malachi Moreno.
The 7-foot native of Georgetown, Kentucky, took center stage this past weekend at the prestigious Chris Brickley Invitational in Chicago, and he did not disappoint. Moreno, a Kentucky commit and the program’s lone McDonald’s All-American in the 2024 class, turned heads with a near double-double performance: 18 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and a block in a game filled with elite talent and big names.
In a gym full of future NBA stars and five-star prospects, it was the Kentucky kid who made the biggest statement.
Moreno’s Star is Rising Fast
From the opening tip, Moreno made his presence felt. He bullied defenders in the paint, threw down multiple highlight-reel dunks, and even showed his court vision with a full-court assist that left the crowd buzzing. He wasn’t just imposing he was composed. The moment never seemed too big.
For Kentucky fans, this was more than just another good stat line. It was confirmation.
Confirmation that the Wildcats have a potential cornerstone piece walking through the doors of Rupp Arena this fall.
Brickley’s Stamp of Approval
Chris Brickley, a renowned NBA trainer whose client list includes the likes of Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant, doesn’t just invite anyone. The Brickley Invitational is for rising stars with the work ethic and talent to match the hype. And Moreno looked like he belonged from the very first possession.
He played with a confidence and maturity that suggests his ceiling may be even higher than his current No. 25 ESPN ranking indicates.
Kentucky’s Future Just Got Brighter
When new head coach Mark Pope took over in April, he vowed to bring a gritty, prideful brand of basketball back to Lexington. What better way to do that than to build around a kid who grew up dreaming of wearing Kentucky blue?
Moreno, who’s been seen frequently around Lexington, posing for pictures with fans at Rupp and attending events like a seasoned vet, already understands what it means to be a Wildcat. He doesn’t just rep the jersey he embodies the culture.
And while his exact role in the 2025-26 rotation remains to be determined, one thing is clear: Moreno’s skill set, work ethic, and Kentucky roots make him a prime candidate to become the next fan favorite in Big Blue Nation.
A Local Hero’s Journey Just Beginning
For Kentucky, Moreno isn’t just another commit. He’s a symbol of what’s possible when elite talent stays home.
He’s the Kentucky kid who could have gone anywhere, but chose to stay and build something special.
And after his breakout showing at the Brickley Invitational, it’s safe to say he’s just getting started.
Stay tuned, Big Blue Nation. Malachi Moreno is coming and he’s bringing the pride of the Commonwealth with him.
“Kentucky’s Got One!” Malachi Moreno Shows Out in National Showcase Fans Are Losing It
Leave a Reply