According to Talia Goodman of On3, Kentucky Wildcats women’s basketball has added another frontcourt player with the commitment of 6-foot-2 forward Ayanna Patterson, as head coach Kenny Brooks continues reshaping the roster following a Sweet 16 run.
Kentucky is coming off an impressive tournament appearance that ended with a loss to Texas Longhorns women’s basketball, but the program still has strong momentum. Brooks recently declined an offer from Virginia Cavaliers women’s basketball, reaffirming his commitment to building a long-term contender in Lexington.
Patterson, once ranked the No. 4 overall recruit and a McDonald’s All-American Game selection, brings considerable potential despite dealing with injuries early in her college career. After missing two full seasons, she returned in 2025–26 and played in 30 games, recording 52 points and 42 rebounds. She also won an NCAA championship in 2025 and has international experience, including a gold medal with Team USA at the FIBA 3×3 U18 World Cup in 2021.
With key departures like Teonni Key and Kaelyn Carroll, Patterson will have the chance to earn minutes alongside standout forward Clara Strack.
If she can remain healthy, Patterson’s size and skill set could make her an important contributor off the bench—or potentially more—as Kentucky looks to build on last season’s success.
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