Malachi Moreno did the right thing when he declared for the NBA Draft, but left the door open for a return to Kentucky if things didn’t go in his favor while he made a leap and tested the waters.
He gathered and gauged interest without sacrificing his collegiate career, a move that guaranteed him a spot on Mark Pope’s roster next season.
The day before Memorial Day, Moreno announced on his social media platforms that he would return to Kentucky for a second season with the Wildcats. I’m sure Kentucky coach Mark Pope and his staff breathed a sigh of relief after learning that Moreno will be back in uniform next year. Most of Big Blue Nation, already nervous about next year’s roster, were also relieved after hearing the news from the former Great Crossing High School standout and the 2025 Kentucky Mr. Basketball.
Although Moreno’s future intentions weren’t fully clear until Sunday night, Pope was confident Moreno would be back to help lead the Wildcats in his third season as coach. He never wavered on his belief that Moreno would return.
The fact that Moreno considered making the jump to the professional level after one collegiate season was remarkable. Early on, Moreno became the man in the middle for Kentucky, given Jayden Quaintance wasn’t going to be an option. Because of injuries associated with his knee, Quaintance played in just four games, while Moreno continued his progression as a newcomer.
The unexpected playing time during his freshman year gave Moreno invaluable experience, thus raising his stock and giving him the opportunity to seek professional advice regarding his future. Despite his status as a starter and a testament to his commitment to improving, Moreno was always among the first players on the court warming up before home games and road contests.
Even Texas coach Sean Miller referred to Moreno as one of the top freshmen players in the nation following the Longhorns’ 85-80 loss to the Wildcats at Rupp Arena on Jan. 21.
“Malachi is a terrific young player," Miller said at the time, "I think he’s one of the best freshmen in the country and certainly has a big role in Kentucky’s team ... Everyone likes to judge these guys on one snapshot, but you forget he’s 19 years old ... He’s playing in games that he’s never played before. I think he’s only going to continue to get better.”
Many experts didn’t predict that Moreno would be a guaranteed first-round selection in the draft, but a small window of opportunity existed for a few teams to possibly draft Moreno late in the first round.
After consulting with his inner circle, Moreno decided it was best to come back for another season. The experience he gained during the process will be beneficial and make Moreno an even better player.
In an off-season of recruiting uncertainty, Moreno provided stability and relieved BBN anxiety.
Malachi Moreno sizes up the game-winning shot with only 0.9 seconds remaining in a 75-74 win over LSU. (UK Athletics photo)
