The lights are always bright in Lexington. Whether you’re a McDonald’s All-American or a rising hometown star, playing for Kentucky means carrying sky-high expectations every time you step on the court. As Mark Pope gears up for his first full season at the helm in 2025-26, attention is turning toward the program’s youth — and the question on every fan’s mind:
Which underclassmen are poised for a breakout?
Here are a few young Wildcats to watch closely this offseason — provided they remain in Lexington amid the ever-active transfer portal.
🌟 Collin Chandler – Guard
2024-25 Stats: 10.4 MIN | 2.7 PTS | 1.0 REB | 0.7 AST
If you’re looking for a breakout candidate in Kentucky’s backcourt, Collin Chandler is your guy. The 6-foot-4 Utah native made his long-awaited return to the court after completing his LDS mission. While his numbers were modest, the flashes of potential were clear. He’s a skilled scorer, solid defender, and carries himself with a calm confidence that hints at much more to come.
As Chandler continues to shake off the rust and get acclimated to high-major competition, his role is poised to grow. With likely changes coming to the backcourt and Mark Pope’s emphasis on versatile guards, Chandler could easily find himself logging 20+ minutes per game.
Breakout Meter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fan Outlook: The smart money’s on Chandler.
💪 Trent Noah – Forward
2024-25 Stats: 11.1 MIN | 2.7 PTS | 1.9 REB | 0.4 AST
Trent Noah may not have filled the stat sheet, but his impact was felt in crunch time. The Eastern Kentucky native came through in big spots, particularly during both of Kentucky’s wins over Tennessee. He drew charges, buried clutch threes, and played with heart — the kind that Big Blue Nation rallies around.
That said, his path to more minutes isn’t guaranteed. Pope wants Noah to transition from his high school role as a point guard into a stretch four, which will take some physical development and adjustment. But if he buys in and grows into that role, he’ll find his way into the rotation.
Breakout Meter: ⭐⭐⭐
Fan Outlook: Underrated and easy to root for.
🧠 Travis Perry – Guard
2024-25 Stats: 9.8 MIN | 2.7 PTS | 0.8 REB | 0.6 AST
Kentucky’s all-time leading scorer didn’t quite find his rhythm in year one. A late-season injury limited his momentum, and even when healthy, Perry’s usual shooting touch didn’t fully carry over. Finishing around the rim was also a work in progress.
Still, the offensive tools are there. Perry is a smart, crafty guard with a smooth jumper and natural instincts. But with a loaded backcourt that includes Acaden Lewis, Jasper Johnson, and Jaland Lowe, cracking the rotation might be a challenge.
Breakout Meter: ⭐⭐
Fan Outlook: The talent’s undeniable, but minutes may be hard to come by.
🔁 Brandon Garrison – Forward/Center
2024-25 Stats: 17.3 MIN | 5.9 PTS | 3.9 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.6 BLK
Garrison remains one of the most intriguing players on the roster. A former McDonald’s All-American, he’s got the frame (6’11”), athleticism, and passing vision that screams pro potential. When he’s locked in, he looks like a future star. When he’s not, he can disappear.
Consistency will be key. Under Pope’s system — which tends to unlock bigs who can stretch the floor and pass — Garrison has a chance to make serious noise. Whether that happens in Lexington depends on how the portal shakes out.
Breakout Meter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fan Outlook: Sky-high ceiling… if he sticks around.
🚨 One Big Wildcard: The Transfer Portal
Let’s face it — nothing is guaranteed in modern college hoops. Any one of these players could be gone tomorrow. That’s just the reality of the portal era. While all signs point to them staying, we won’t know for sure until the dust settles.
🗳️ Big Blue Nation — Who Ya Got?
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Chandler: Poised and polished.
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Noah: Gritty and dependable.
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Garrison: Talented and tantalizing.
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Perry: Legacy and upside.
Someone’s about to level up in 2025-26. Who’s your pick? Drop your vote — and get ready. In Lexington, the grind never stops.
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