After Acaden Lewis’s shocking decommitment, five transfer portal targets for Kentucky basketball
Mark Pope isn’t blinking.
Just a day after top-25 guard Acaden Lewis decommitted from Kentucky’s 2024 class, the Wildcats are already exploring their next move. With Jaland Lowe, Travis Perry, and Jasper Johnson all still in the mix, Kentucky could hold steady—but a veteran presence would ease the pressure in the backcourt.
1. Xaivian Lee – Princeton
Lee is a do-it-all floor general who elevated Princeton with elite vision and rebounding for a guard. He’s crafty, shoots well from deep, and defends without fouling. He’s also arguably the most complete passer available in the portal.
If Pope wants someone who can run the offense and make high-IQ reads, Lee should be high on the list.
2. Malachi Smith – Dayton
Smith’s numbers don’t always leap off the page, but he’s been rock solid across multiple seasons. He’s a strong competitor with a steady handle and an improving jump shot.
If Kentucky wants someone who can balance floor leadership with veteran composure, Smith is a fit.
3. Barrington Hargress – UC Riverside
Hargress is the kind of explosive scorer that can change a game in one half. He’s not a pure pass-first point guard, but his growth as a facilitator (4.5 APG in 2023-24) shows promise.
Kentucky may prefer a more traditional distributor, but if they want scoring punch off the bench, Hargress delivers.
4. Dylan Darling – Idaho State
Darling might be one of the most slept-on guards in the portal. After a breakout year, he offers shooting, passing, and toughness. His assist numbers and shooting splits suggest he could fit into Pope’s ball-sharing offense.
Don’t be shocked if Kentucky quietly makes a move here.
5. Jacari Lane – North Alabama
Lane has quietly improved each year and just shot over 40% from deep while running the show for North Alabama. His low turnover rate, strong shooting, and ability to get to the line make him an intriguing plug-and-play option.
He doesn’t have high-major experience, but the skillset is SEC-ready.
What’s Next for Kentucky?
Pope and his staff may decide to roll with the current group, especially if Lowe or Perry take a step forward in summer workouts. But if Pope adds another backcourt piece, expect it to be someone who can:
Take care of the ball
Shoot over 35% from three
Defend without fouling
There’s no panic in Lexington. Just strategy. And if we’ve learned anything about Pope’s offseason moves so far—it’s that he doesn’t wait long.
