The Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team is experiencing significant roster changes following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, marked by key players entering the transfer portal.
Sophomore guard Adou Thiero has entered the transfer portal. Thiero, who started 19 of 25 games this past season, averaged 7.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game. His departure is a notable loss for the Wildcats, as he was anticipated to provide continuity and experience for the upcoming season.
In addition, former Kentucky commit Jayden Quaintance has entered the transfer portal. Quaintance, a 6-foot-9 forward, originally committed to Kentucky in 2023 but decommitted following a coaching change in 2024. He spent the past season at Arizona State, averaging 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game before undergoing ACL surgery on March 19. With multiple frontcourt players graduating from Kentucky, the Wildcats may consider re-recruiting Quaintance to bolster their roster.
The Wildcats are actively exploring the transfer portal to address these roster vacancies. One notable target is Jacksonville State guard Jaron Pierre Jr., who led Conference USA with 21.6 points per game and was named the Conference USA Player of the Year. Pierre is scheduled to meet with Kentucky as he weighs his transfer options.
Head coach John Calipari has emphasized the need to add experienced and physical players to the roster. He acknowledged that the team needs to get older and more physical, stating, “We need to get older… Who is coming back? Does that make us older in one way?” Calipari also highlighted the importance of the transfer portal in achieving this goal, noting that the team is looking for players who can add to the group’s needs when having a bunch of young guys and a few returning players.
As the Wildcats navigate these roster changes, the coaching staff is focused on strategic recruitment to build a competitive team for the upcoming season. The combination of incoming freshmen and targeted transfers will be crucial in shaping the team’s Success
