Kentucky Basketball: Key Returners for 2025 Season

Just one year into the Mark Pope era at Kentucky, his basketball program is set to lose several key contributors due to expiring eligibility. Amari Williams, Lamont Butler and Koby Brea are just a few who will not be able to play for the program next season.

However, there is a handful of players that will make an expected return to Kentucky this fall for a second year under Pope.

That list starts with Otega Oweh, who was selected to the All-SEC Second Team in his first year as a Wildcat and was by far the most consistent player on this past year’s team. His ability to score from anywhere on the court was a serious asset for Pope’s offense and he should only improve as we move into the offseason.

Next is Brandon Garrison, who spent time playing and learning behind Williams this past year. The former McDonald’s All-American has talent that is through the charts and more time spent in the gym working on his craft should only improve his skillset moving forward.

Finally, the freshmen trio of Collin Chandler, Travis Perry and Trent Noah earned valuable playing time that was not originally anticipated going into their first season in Lexington. Most of the reason was due to injuries but each also had shining moments throughout the year when they were asked to handle an increased level of responsibility.

All five Wildcats have the opportunity to carry on the culture that veteran players like Brea, Butler and Williams started. They’ll become the veteran core for any transfer portal player Pope’s staff brings in as well as the freshman recruiting class coming in this season.