Breaking News: Mark Pope Introduces New Roster for 2025–2026 Season — Full List of Players and Roles Revealed….
Lexington, KY — April 25, 2025
In a major announcement that sent waves across the college basketball landscape, Kentucky Wildcats Head Coach Mark Pope officially unveiled the full roster for the 2025–2026 basketball season. With high expectations after a roller-coaster 2024–2025 campaign, Pope’s new lineup reflects a blend of promising talent, experienced transfers, and returning leadership that he hopes will restore Kentucky to national championship contention.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at Rupp Arena, where Pope walked through each member of the newly finalized squad, highlighting their expected roles, skillsets, and how he envisions them fitting into the team’s tactical framework. Pope’s excitement was palpable, emphasizing that this group “has the fire, unity, and character to chase greatness.”
Below is the complete breakdown of the 2025–2026 Kentucky Wildcats roster, including player roles and expectations as outlined by Coach Pope:
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Starting Lineup
1. DJ Wagner – Senior – Point Guard (Captain)
One of the few returning stars, Wagner has matured into a floor general. Pope praised his “relentless drive, leadership growth, and improved court vision.” Wagner is expected to anchor the offense, facilitate transitions, and serve as the emotional leader.
2. Travis Perry – Sophomore – Shooting Guard
After an electrifying freshman year, Perry is stepping into a starting role. Known for his deadly three-point shooting and high basketball IQ, he’ll be expected to stretch defenses and serve as a key scoring option.
3. Malachi Moreno – Freshman – Small Forward
One of Pope’s most prized 2025 recruits, Moreno is a five-star wing with elite athleticism, length, and defensive instincts. He’s projected to be a two-way star, capable of guarding multiple positions and finishing strong at the rim.
4. Brandon Huntley-Hatfield – Graduate Transfer – Power Forward
The Louisville transfer brings size, strength, and maturity to the Wildcats. At 6’10”, Huntley-Hatfield is expected to dominate the boards and provide a physical presence inside. Pope called him “a game-changer in the paint.”
5. Zvonimir Ivisic – Junior – Center
A returning fan-favorite, Ivisic has bulked up over the summer and worked extensively on his footwork and midrange shot. As the team’s primary rim protector, he’ll anchor the defense and contribute offensively in pick-and-roll sets.
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Bench Depth and Key Role Players
6. Kerr Kriisa – Senior – Guard
The Estonian transfer, returning after a unique offseason chopping wood in his homeland, brings veteran experience and a fearless mentality. He will lead the second unit and is expected to hit clutch shots when it matters most.
7. Reed Sheppard – Junior – Guard/Wing
Having been benched much of last season amid controversy, Sheppard returns with renewed motivation. Pope praised his commitment and is counting on him to play key minutes off the bench with his scrappy defense and all-around game.
8. Caleb Glenn – Sophomore – Forward
A strong and athletic wing, Glenn is anticipated to fill multiple roles depending on matchups. His energy and rebounding make him an asset in both transition and half-court sets.
9. Samson Johnson – Transfer – Center
Transferred from UConn, Johnson is a shot-blocking machine with a 7’5” wingspan. He will back up Ivisic and help dominate the paint against deeper frontcourts in the SEC.
10. Jalen Thompson – Freshman – Combo Guard
A late addition from California, Thompson was a McDonald’s All-American snub who Pope calls “the steal of the class.” He’s expected to develop quickly and may even challenge for starting minutes by mid-season.
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Redshirts and Developmental Squad
11. Marcus Lovett Jr. – Redshirt Sophomore – Guard
Lovett continues to recover from an ACL injury but is progressing well. He’s expected to return mid-season and could serve as a spark off the bench.
12. Tyrese David – Freshman – Forward
Part of Pope’s future-building efforts, David will redshirt this season for development. The staff is excited about his long-term upside.
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Coaching Comments and Strategy Outlook
Coach Pope emphasized defensive intensity, fast-paced offense, and team-first culture as the hallmarks of this new era. “We’re going to be relentless on defense and smart with the ball. This group has incredible chemistry already. That’s something you can’t coach — it’s organic,” Pope stated.
He also acknowledged the program’s pressure and tradition:
> “At Kentucky, excellence isn’t a goal. It’s the baseline. This roster is ready to bring that standard back to life.”
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Fan Reactions and Analyst Takes
The announcement has already sparked enthusiasm across Big Blue Nation. Fans flooded social media with reactions, calling the lineup “the most balanced in years” and praising Pope’s strategic recruiting.
ESPN analyst Jay Bilas commented:
> “Pope’s roster is deep, experienced, and hungry. Kentucky could be back in the Final Four discussion with this lineup.”
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What’s Next?
The team will begin preseason camp in May, with two international friendlies planned in July. Pope hinted at a “special summer tour” to build team chemistry and test his squad against overseas pros.
As the new season looms, all eyes are on Lexington. The Wildcats faithful are hopeful, and Mark Pope has made his move. With the pieces in place, the road to March Madness officially begins.
Stay tuned for exclusive player interviews, practice updates, and behind-the-scenes access as the Wildcats gear up for the 2025–2026 season.
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