Kentucky and Indiana Emerge as Finalists for Transfer Lamar Wilkerson
The recruitment battle for Sam Houston State transfer Lamar Wilkerson is nearing its conclusion, with just two programs left in the race. After canceling planned visits to Auburn and Ole Miss, Wilkerson has narrowed his choices to the Kentucky Wildcats and the Indiana Hoosiers. A final decision is expected in the coming days.
Wilkerson, a 6-foot-5 guard, recently completed official visits to both Kentucky and Indiana—his only visits before deciding to end his recruitment process. According to KSR’s Jack Pilgrim, he is set to return home Monday evening to weigh his options with family, with an announcement anticipated later this week.
Momentum may now be swinging in Kentucky’s favor. On3’s Jamie Shaw reported that the Wildcats are “carrying momentum” as the recruitment winds down. While Indiana is still very much in the mix and could make a late surge, signs are pointing toward Lexington as Wilkerson’s likely destination.
Wilkerson’s Stock Skyrockets After Stellar Season
Lamar Wilkerson has quickly become one of the most sought-after names in the transfer portal following a breakout junior season at Sam Houston State. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, while posting impressive shooting splits: 47.7% from the field, an elite 44.5% from beyond the arc, and 82.2% from the free-throw line. Remarkably consistent, he scored in double figures every game and hit the 20-point mark 17 times. His performance vaulted him to No. 26 in the transfer portal rankings, making him the seventh-highest-rated player still uncommitted. For programs in search of a proven, efficient backcourt scorer, Wilkerson fits the bill perfectly.
Kentucky’s Vision vs. Indiana’s Opportunity
Kentucky enters the race with a mostly complete roster—12 scholarship players are already committed for the 2025–26 season. Under the leadership of new head coach Mark Pope, the Wildcats are building a roster that balances talent, depth, and experience. Wilkerson could serve as the final key addition: a dynamic scoring threat who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
Indiana, on the other hand, offers a very different appeal. With only four players currently locked in for next season, the Hoosiers can offer immediate playing time and a more central role in the offense. They’ve also been aggressive in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) arena, which could play a pivotal role in Wilkerson’s decision.
Decision Time Nears
Recruitments of this caliber rarely follow a straight path, especially in the modern era of NIL and the transfer portal. Nothing is guaranteed until the commitment is official. Still, it’s clear that Wilkerson is nearing the end of his recruitment journey. The final choice—between Kentucky’s structured, competitive roster and Indiana’s opportunity-rich rebuild—now rests with him.
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