Andrew Carr and Lamont Butler Share Encouraging Message to Future Kentucky Wildcats
The Kentucky Wildcats’ 2024-25 season ended in disappointment with a 78-65 loss to SEC rival Tennessee in the Sweet 16 at Lucas Oil Stadium. Despite showing promise under first-year head coach Mark Pope, the team fell short of its championship aspirations.
Lamont Butler and Andrew Carr had a message for future Kentucky Wildcats.
"If you're in the transfer portal, and you're looking for a spot to go, go to Kentucky." pic.twitter.com/3q8g38JKit
— Lee K. Howard ☀️ (@HowardWKYT) March 29, 2025
Veterans Depart, Leaving Leadership Gaps
Kentucky will move forward without two key seniors, Lamont Butler and Andrew Carr, who played vital roles throughout the season. Butler capped his collegiate career with a standout 18-point performance against Tennessee, shooting 70% from the field. Carr, a consistent presence on both ends of the court, leaves behind a leadership gap that Pope will need to address.
Carr didn’t hesitate to endorse Pope’s program to potential transfers, stating, “If you’re in the transfer portal and looking for a spot to go, go to Kentucky.” His words reflect confidence in the direction of the program, as the Wildcats prepare to reload their roster.
Key Returnees and Building for the Future
Despite the loss of experienced players, Kentucky expects several key underclassmen to return. Leading the group is Oweh, who averaged 16.2 points per game and was a defensive anchor with 1.6 steals per contest. ESPN’s draft projections currently rank him outside the top 90 prospects, making a return to Lexington a strong possibility, especially with lucrative NIL opportunities available.
Other notable returnees include sophomore forward Brandon Garrison and freshmen Collin Chandler, Trent Noah, and Travis Perry. Their development will be critical as Pope enters his second year leading the Wildcats.
Koby Brea picked Kentucky over Duke, Kansas, UConn and UNC out of the transfer portal.
The 3-point sharpshooter believes anyone with similar options moving forward should do the same.
Why? Mark Pope is "the greatest coach in the world."
READ: https://t.co/tBe4X8BTft pic.twitter.com/AExfW9eHyl
— Jack Pilgrim (@JackPilgrimKSR) February 12, 2025
Recruiting and Transfer Portal Strategy
Concerns about recruiting surfaced when Pope took over, but he has already proven his ability to attract top talent. The Wildcats’ 2025 class, ranked No. 6 nationally, features five-star prospects Jasper Johnson (guard) and Malachi Moreno (center), along with four-star combo guard Acaden Lewis. If consensus five-star forward Nate Ament commits, the class could get an even bigger boost.
In addition to high school recruits, the transfer portal remains a valuable tool for Pope to bring in experienced players. With elite facilities, a passionate fan base, and strong NIL opportunities, Kentucky remains an attractive landing spot for impact transfers looking to compete at a high level.
Looking Ahead to 2025-26
With a strong recruiting class, key returning players, and an active transfer portal approach, Kentucky is positioned to remain a national contender. Pope’s first season established a solid foundation, but the challenge now is integrating new talent and pushing for a deeper postseason run. Expectations in Lexington remain sky-high, and the Wildcats are ready to reload for another shot at a championship.
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