2026-27 Kentucky basketball player preview: Malachi Moreno

Kentucky fans received some huge news on Sunday when Malachi Moreno opted out of the NBA Draft to return to Lexington for another year. It was not only big for the Wildcats, but for Moreno too as it now gives him another year to really boost his stock before hopefully cementing himself near or even in the lottery next year. It was a decision that was weighed heavily by Moreno, but now he’s back.

Moreno out-did expectations last year as a freshman, stepping up big with star center Jayden Quaintance playing in just four total games as he struggled returning from his past ACL injury. The seven-footer played his way into earning All-SEC honors as a freshman when no one expected it coming into the season. He also had one of the top rebounding percentages in the conference as well. On a team that had many flaws, Moreno’s work ethic was unmatched as he came up with a number of huge rebounds in the final minutes of games throughout the season.

Dec 23, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope talks with center Malachi Moreno (24) during the second half against the Bellarmine Knights at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Last season, the Kentucky native averaged 7.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game as he became a true double-double threat any game out. His best game was against Mississippi State, where he put up 17 points on 8-10 shooting overall, along with eight rebounds, six assists and four steals. Kentucky wanted someone in that Amari Williams role, where playmaking as a big man was important. Moreno played his way into that and is looking to build on it next season

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So, what could be in store for year two? Let’s take a look at what his stats could look like.

Feb 28, 2026; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats center Malachi Moreno (24) spins to the basket around Vanderbilt Commodores forward Jalen Washington (13) during the second half at Rupp Arena at…

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Publish date : 2026-05-29 11:00:00

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