As the college basketball offseason heats up, the Kentucky Wildcats are set to host one of the most intriguing names in the transfer portal. Indiana Hoosiers forward Mackenzie Mgbako will visit Kentucky on Wednesday, according to Travis Branham. This visit presents an opportunity for both Mgbako and Kentucky, as the Wildcats continue reshaping their roster.
Mgbako’s Basketball Journey
Originally a 5-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American in the 2023 class, Mgbako initially committed to Duke before choosing Indiana. Ranked as the No. 10 overall prospect and the second-best power forward in his class, he also received offers from prestigious programs such as Kansas, North Carolina, Michigan, and UCLA.
At 6-foot-9 and 222 pounds, Mgbako brings a unique blend of size, versatility, and scoring ability. His ability to play both forward positions adds value to any team looking for lineup flexibility.
College Performance and Growth
During his freshman season at Indiana (2023-24), Mgbako averaged 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game while shooting 39.5% from the field and 32.7% from three-point range. He was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year for his contributions.
His sophomore season (2024-25) saw efficiency improvements. He maintained his scoring average at 12.2 points per game while increasing his shooting percentages-43.7% from the field and 32.9% from three. Notably, his two-point field goal percentage rose from 45.3% to 52.6%, reflecting a refined offensive approach. Despite fewer free-throw attempts, he remained an efficient shooter at 81.7% from the line.
Potential Fit with Kentucky
Kentucky, under head coach Mark Pope, is actively seeking versatile forwards to complement its evolving system. Mgbako’s combination of size and perimeter skills aligns with the Wildcats’ need for a dynamic scoring threat.
Given his experience in a competitive Big Ten environment, Mgbako could provide Kentucky with a polished offensive option. With a system that emphasizes floor spacing and pace, Kentucky may offer an ideal setting for Mgbako to maximize his strengths.
What Lies Ahead?
Mgbako has confirmed that he will not return to Indiana and has also declared for the NBA Draft while exploring transfer options. While Kentucky is a strong suitor, he is expected to assess multiple programs before finalizing his next move.
As one of the top available players in the portal, Mgbako’s decision will be closely followed, shaping both his career trajectory and the competitive landscape of college basketball next season. For Wildcats fans, they are hopeful HC Mark Pope can land Mgbako sooner rather than later.