Take a deep breath and exhale. After eight intense weeks of competition in Lexington, the Kentucky men’s basketball team has concluded its summer training and is now taking a brief break before the fall semester. It feels like the move-in process for banner No. 9 started just yesterday, and now the Joe Craft Center is quiet—reflecting a calm before the upcoming storm.
Mark Pope Aims to Build on Rookie Success
Mark Pope impressed in his first year coaching the Wildcats, but the question remains: can he lead the team to further success in his second season? KSR spoke with various insiders who have been closely observing summer practices to gauge the 2025-26 roster.
The overall sentiment? Optimism prevails as the team retains the solid qualities of the previous season while embracing a new tough and gritty mindset aimed at enhancing their potential.
Otega Oweh Shows Improvement
Recall the sense of comfort when Oscar Tshiebwe chose to return to Kentucky after an outstanding season? Although the outcome wasn’t ideal, his presence was a reliable anchor. Oweh offers similar reliability this season, returning as an All-SEC player who averaged 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 steals in 33 of 36 games. He has committed to being “Back Better Now” in his final collegiate season, and early signs indicate he’s on track.
Confidence Boost for Point Guard Jaland Lowe
While Oweh is a guaranteed asset, the same cannot yet be said for Lowe—at least publicly. However, the All-ACC standout has exceeded early expectations in Lexington, demonstrating impressive ability alongside Oweh. Known for his quick pace, Lowe is adept at driving to the basket and facilitating for teammates. Though not an elite shooter, his integration into Pope’s system shows promise for improvement, mirroring Lamont Butler’s successful transition last season.
Trent Noah Stands Out as the Team’s Best Shooter
Discussions about summer performers often highlight Noah, who has emerged as the team’s best shooter, showcasing remarkable efficiency. He has developed into a reliable perimeter threat with a talent for rebounding and taking on leadership responsibilities. Although he’s working on his defensive skills, his progress positions him as a critical player in the rotation for his sophomore year.
Collin Chandler Returns Strong After Injury
Chandler started impressively before an injury sidelined him during summer workouts. After a brief absence, he returned and continued to shine, likely establishing himself as a strong candidate for a starting role. His shooting prowess has improved, making him a valuable asset as he competes for minutes alongside Lowe and Oweh.
