Kentucky Targeting High Point Transfer Kimani Hamilton to Bolster Backcourt Depth
The Kentucky Wildcats, led by head coach Mark Pope, have been among the most aggressive programs in the transfer portal this offseason. With a strong freshman class coming in and several key transfers already committed, Pope has wasted no time reshaping the roster for his second year in Lexington. However, one key position remains uncertain: shooting guard. With questions still surrounding Otega Oweh’s status, Kentucky continues to explore options—and one of the newest names in the mix is High Point transfer Kimani Hamilton.
A Rising Talent with Versatility
Hamilton’s path to becoming a portal standout hasn’t been typical. A former top-100 recruit from Clinton, Mississippi, he began his college career at Mississippi State but saw limited minutes as a freshman. He then transferred to High Point, where he emerged as a key contributor and two-time All-Big South selection.
In the 2023-24 season, Hamilton started all 35 games, averaging 13.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 52% from the field. He played a major role in leading High Point to an NCAA Tournament berth. Though his perimeter shooting (32.2% from three) still needs work, he impressed with his ability to attack the basket, absorb contact, and create his own shot.
At 6-foot-7, Hamilton brings size and an inside-out skillset that could mesh well with Kentucky’s guard-heavy lineup. As Pope continues to fine-tune his rotation, Hamilton presents an intriguing option with proven upside.
How Kimani Hamilton Fits into Mark Pope’s Vision at Kentucky
Kentucky has been busy reloading under head coach Mark Pope, securing key commitments from Mo Dioubate, Kam Williams, Jaland Lowe, Jayden Quaintance, and Andrija Jelavic. Add in a top-tier recruiting class headlined by 5-star guard Jasper Johnson and 4-star forward Malachi Moreno, and the Wildcats are building a strong foundation for the upcoming season.
Still, the potential departure of Otega Oweh leaves a gap in the backcourt—one that Kimani Hamilton could help fill. While he’s not a prototypical shooting guard, Hamilton’s 6-foot-7 frame, athleticism, and natural scoring ability make him an intriguing fit in Pope’s system. Pope emphasizes spacing, pace, and positional versatility, all areas where Hamilton’s skillset could shine.
His ability to guard multiple positions, create off the dribble, and contribute without needing high usage aligns well with the modern, flexible style Pope wants to implement. As Kentucky’s roster continues to take shape, Hamilton could provide valuable depth and adaptability at both ends of the floor.
As Kentucky works to complete its roster, Kimani Hamilton remains a name to watch. If the Wildcats land his commitment, it would mark another strategic move in assembling a well-rounded, competitive team poised for a deep postseason run.
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