The 2024-25 Kentucky basketball roster is loaded with talent and depth, bringing together a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Ranking these players by importance for the season, the focus is on those who will have the greatest impact on the Wildcats’ chances for success.
### 1. **Kerr Kriisa – 6’3″ G, Senior**
As a seasoned point guard, Kerr Kriisa stands as the most crucial player for Kentucky this season. The senior transfer from Arizona is expected to be the floor general for the Wildcats, providing leadership, playmaking, and perimeter shooting. Kriisa is known for his ability to run an offense, distribute the ball, and stretch defenses with his three-point shooting. His experience in big games will be invaluable for a team that has high expectations, especially in a loaded SEC and NCAA tournament race.
### 2. **Andrew Carr – 6’11” F, Senior**
Andrew Carr, a senior forward, brings size, versatility, and experience to the frontcourt. Standing at 6’11”, Carr can stretch the floor with his shooting ability while also contributing inside as a physical presence. His ability to space the floor and create mismatches is essential for Kentucky, especially in modern college basketball, where bigs who can shoot are increasingly valuable. Carr’s leadership and defensive contributions will also be vital to the team’s success in a highly competitive season.
### 3. **Lamont Butler – 6’2″ G, Senior**
Lamont Butler, a transfer from San Diego State, arrives with a reputation for his tenacious defense and clutch performances. His defensive prowess and ability to score in key moments will make him a key player for Kentucky. Butler’s toughness and versatility will allow him to play both guard spots, providing both offensive and defensive stability. His leadership on and off the court will be crucial as the Wildcats look to compete for a national title.
### 4. **Brandon Garrison – 6’10” F, Sophomore**
Sophomore forward Brandon Garrison has tremendous upside and could be a breakout player this season. At 6’10”, Garrison has the size to protect the rim and the agility to be an offensive weapon in the post and on the perimeter. His ability to develop further, both offensively and defensively, will be key for Kentucky’s frontcourt depth and overall success. Garrison could emerge as a vital cog in Coach Calipari’s rotation, especially if he continues to improve his scoring and rebounding.
### 5. **Otega Oweh – 6’4″ G, Junior**
Otega Oweh’s combination of athleticism and defensive ability makes him a strong contributor for the Wildcats. His ability to guard multiple positions and provide scoring in transition will be essential for Kentucky’s success this season. Oweh has shown flashes of brilliance and could step into a larger role this year, providing scoring depth and defensive versatility.
### 6. **Collin Chandler – 6’5″ G, Freshman**
Freshman guard Collin Chandler brings a mix of scoring and playmaking to the Wildcats. His ability to stretch the floor and score off the dribble will add depth to Kentucky’s backcourt. As a freshman, Chandler may need time to adjust to the collegiate level, but he has the potential to make an immediate impact, especially as a shooting guard who can knock down outside shots and create opportunities for others.
### 7. **Jaxson Robinson – 6’6″ G, Senior**
Jaxson Robinson is a skilled guard who can provide both shooting and ball-handling. Robinson’s ability to shoot from the outside and contribute as a secondary ball handler will be critical for Kentucky’s perimeter play. His senior experience gives him the edge in terms of maturity and the ability to handle pressure situations. Robinson will be relied on to provide scoring depth and perimeter defense.
### 8. **Ansley Almonor – 6’7″ F, Senior**
Ansley Almonor is a versatile forward who can contribute in multiple ways. He brings experience and toughness to the frontcourt, as well as the ability to score both inside and on the perimeter. Almonor’s physicality will be key for Kentucky’s depth, especially against teams with strong frontcourts.
### 9. **Amari Williams – 7’0″ C, Senior**
Amari Williams, a 7-footer, provides valuable size and rebounding ability for the Wildcats. While his offensive game may not be as polished as others, his shot-blocking and rim protection will be essential to Kentucky’s defensive schemes. Williams’ size and defensive impact will be important for establishing a strong presence in the paint.
### 10. **Travis Perry – 6’2″ G, Freshman**
Freshman Travis Perry is another backcourt talent who can contribute both offensively and defensively. While he may take time to adjust, his scoring ability and playmaking could provide valuable minutes off the bench, especially in a high-pressure SEC environment.
### 11. **Koby Brea – 6’7″ G, Senior**
Koby Brea’s size and shooting ability make him a useful depth piece for Kentucky. As a senior, Brea provides maturity and leadership, and he can step in as a perimeter shooter when needed. While his role may be more limited compared to others on the roster, his veteran presence will still be valuable in certain matchups.
### 12. **Trent Noah – 6’5″ G, Freshman**
Freshman guard Trent Noah brings another layer of depth to the Wildcats’ backcourt. While he may be further down the depth chart, his versatility and potential to contribute in practice could push him into larger roles later in the season.
### Conclusion
The 2024-25 Kentucky Wildcats are poised to be one of the most talented teams in college basketball, with a well-rounded roster full of experienced players and highly touted newcomers. Kriisa, Carr, and Butler will likely be the focal points of the team, while Garrison, Oweh, and Chandler have the potential to take on increasingly important roles. With a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, Kentucky will look to make a deep run in both the SEC and NCAA tournaments.
