The Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team is undergoing a significant roster transformation, with several key players departing through NBA Draft declarations and transfers.
NBA Draft Declarations:
Reed Sheppard: The CBS Sports Freshman of the Year, Sheppard averaged 12.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. He showcased remarkable efficiency, shooting 53.6% from the field and 51.1% from three-point range. Sheppard has officially declared for the NBA Draft.
Rob Dillingham: Named SEC Sixth Man of the Year, Dillingham contributed 15.2 points and 2.9 rebounds per game, emerging as a potential top pick in the upcoming draft.
Justin Edwards: Averaging 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, Edwards has declared for the NBA Draft and is projected to be selected in the late first or early second round.
Transfers:
Zvonimir Ivišić: After averaging 5.5 points and 3.3 rebounds in 15 games, Ivišić has transferred to Arkansas, following former Kentucky coach John Calipari.
Aaron Bradshaw: The former top-five recruit, who averaged 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds, has entered the transfer portal and is expected to join Ohio State.
D.J. Wagner: Averaging 9.9 points and 1.9 rebounds per game, Wagner has entered the transfer portal following Calipari’s departure.
Adou Thiero: Known for his defensive prowess and averaging 7.2 points on 49.2% shooting, Thiero has transferred to Arkansas, expressing gratitude to the Kentucky community in his farewell.
Graduations:
Antonio Reeves: The team’s leading scorer with 20.2 points per game, Reeves has exhausted his college eligibility.
Tre Mitchell: Averaging 10.7 points and 7.2 rebounds, Mitchell has also concluded his collegiate career.
These departures leave Kentucky without returning scholarship players from last season, signaling a period of rebuilding for the Wildcats.
