Imagine a freshman stepping onto the University of Kentucky’s basketball court and instantly turning heads—not just among fans, but among seasoned coaches and teammates alike. That’s exactly what Malachi Moreno has done, and it’s leaving everyone in awe. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this Kentucky native isn’t just another talented recruit; he’s redefining what it means to be a game-changer in college basketball.
In the heart of Hoover, Alabama, whispers of Moreno’s impact have been circulating through the Wildcats’ preseason practices. When asked about the biggest surprise player, UK assistant coach Cody Fueger didn’t hesitate: ‘Every day, it’s like, “Oh my gosh, that guy’s been our best player today,” and then the next day, it’s someone else.’ Yet, amidst this rotating spotlight, Moreno’s name keeps rising to the top. Kentucky star Otega Oweh echoed this sentiment, admitting, ‘It’s hard to pick just one because everyone’s gotten so much better, but Malachi? He’s been a beast.’
And this is the part most people miss: Moreno, a 7-foot, 250-pound freshman, isn’t just dominating because of his size. It’s his basketball IQ, his poise, and his relentless work ethic that have coaches and teammates alike shaking their heads in disbelief. ‘I didn’t actually know that’s the guy I recruited a year ago,’ head coach Mark Pope admitted during SEC Media Days. ‘He’s been such an impactful freshman for us.’
But let’s rewind a bit. Moreno, the reigning Mr. Basketball in Kentucky, was the first recruit to commit to Pope’s program. Between his commitment and enrollment, he earned McDonald’s All-American honors, solidified his status as a five-star recruit, and led Great Crossing High School to a state championship. His stats? A jaw-dropping 21.5 points, 14.9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game as a senior, with a 72.1% field-goal percentage. Yet, despite his high school dominance, there was always a sense that he had more to offer.
Here’s the controversial part: While Moreno thrived as a traditional big man in high school, his perimeter skills and basketball IQ are now taking center stage. Fueger noted, ‘His IQ—that’s probably surprised me the most. He’s a smart player who asks good questions and has a great feel for the game.’ This versatility has sparked debates among fans and analysts: Is Moreno the future of the modern big man, or is he still finding his niche in college basketball? Weigh in below—what do you think?
Teammates like senior guard Denzel Aberdeen can’t stop raving about him. ‘Malachi has been great for us. He’s competing every day, and he’s someone I love playing with,’ Aberdeen said. But it’s not just his on-court performance; Moreno’s maturity and leadership have made him a locker room favorite. At just 19, he’s already being called a potential first-round NBA draft pick. But here’s the kicker: Pope is quick to remind everyone that Moreno is still a freshman. ‘He’s gonna have some growing pains, but his impact is incredible,’ he said.
With starting center Jayden Quaintance sidelined due to injury, Moreno has a golden opportunity to shine early in the 2025-26 season. Paired with junior big man Brandon Garrison, the duo is already making waves in practice. ‘Those two get it,’ Pope said. ‘They’re pushing each other so hard—it’s a fist fight every day, and they’re both getting better because of it.’
So, as Kentucky fans eagerly await the season opener against Nicholls on November 4, one question looms large: Can Malachi Moreno live up to the hype? Or will the growing pains of college basketball humble this rising star? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: this Kentucky kid is a name you won’t forget anytime soon.
