Kentucky Adds National Champion Denzel Aberdeen for 2025-26

The Kentucky Wildcats have been highly active in the men's college basketball transfer portal, recently finalizing their roster by securing Florida transfer Denzel Aberdeen, who played a key role in the Gators' national championship run and is expected to thrive in an expanded role at Kentucky. Aberdeen, noted for his defensive prowess and scoring potential, joins a group of five transfers, two freshmen, and several returning players, assembling what could be one of the highest-paid rosters in college basketball next season. Head coach Mark Pope's strategic recruiting has also extended to landing top high school talent, with five-star 2026 prospect Tyran Stokes planning an official visit and Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno set to arrive this fall. Kentucky is currently ranked No. 4 in the national transfer team rankings, and the roster is considered a contender for a championship run in 2025-26. The portal window closes soon, but Kentucky is believed to be essentially finished with its major additions barring unexpected NBA draft decisions. The collective efforts in the transfer market and recruiting trail signal Kentucky's intent to remain at the forefront of college basketball.