Kentucky Basketball Offseason Buzz: Rondo Graduates, Lowe Impresses, Draft Decisions Loom, and More

It’s been a busy stretch for Kentucky basketball as the program continues to make headlines on multiple fronts. From a former star finishing what he started in the classroom to rising prospects making noise on the national stage, the Wildcats are firmly in the offseason spotlight.

Here’s a full rundown of the latest Kentucky basketball storylines you need to know.

Rajon Rondo Earns His Degree Nearly 20 Years Later

One of the most cerebral point guards to ever wear Kentucky blue just added a new title to his résumé: college graduate.

Rajon Rondo, who starred for the Wildcats from 2004 to 2006 before becoming a two-time NBA All-Star and champion, officially earned his degree during UK’s spring commencement. His return to the classroom after nearly two decades speaks volumes about the values that still drive Kentucky’s basketball culture—one where education, legacy, and long-term growth are just as important as stats and accolades.

Jaland Lowe Turns Heads at G League Elite Camp

While NBA hopefuls compete for attention in Chicago, Kentucky newcomer Jaland Lowe is making waves in his own right.

The transfer guard from Pittsburgh impressed scouts at the NBA G League Elite Camp with his shot-making, quickness, and defensive instincts, earning praise from Yahoo! Sports. However, Lowe didn’t receive an invite to the main NBA Draft Combine—a puzzling omission, especially considering former UK target Mackenzie Mgbako secured one despite an up-and-down season at Indiana.

For Lowe, the snub may serve as motivation heading into what could be a breakout year in Lexington. While the lack of a Combine invite might hurt his NBA visibility in the short term, it’s welcome news for Kentucky fans eager to see him make an impact in the SEC next season.

Mark Pope Enters Year Two with Raised Expectations

After a strong first season and a flurry of high-level roster additions, the bar is rising for head coach Mark Pope.

Sports Illustrated recently pointed out that the expectations for Pope in Year 2 are “significantly higher”—and rightfully so. He now understands the grind of the SEC, has postseason experience under his belt, and has had the opportunity to build a team that fits his system. The transition phase is over. Now it’s time to deliver—and Pope appears ready for the challenge.

Otega Oweh and Koby Brea Headline NBA Draft Combine Scrimmages

Two current Wildcats—Koby Brea and Otega Oweh—are in Chicago for the NBA Draft Combine and will take the floor for 5-on-5 scrimmages beginning Wednesday. ESPN will stream the games live via its app.

According to DraftExpress insider Jonathan Givony, the two guards will compete on separate teams:

• Oweh is set to play with Team Lazare
• Brea will suit up for Team Mueller

Both players will be closely evaluated by NBA scouts. For Brea, it’s a chance to solidify his late-second-round buzz. For Oweh, the stakes are even higher. He has until May 28 to decide whether to remain in the draft or return to college.

In a conversation with Oregon Live, Oweh emphasized that he’s fully committed to the process but hasn’t closed the door on coming back. “I’m all in,” he said, clarifying that he doesn’t want to approach the process “one foot in and one foot out.” As for whether a first-round guarantee is necessary? “I’m just gonna go through these workouts, give it my all, and when it’s all said and done, I’ll see where I’m at and then I’ll make that decision.”

Malachi Moreno Shines Against Top Competition

Incoming Kentucky big man Malachi Moreno continues to impress.

The 7-foot center from Georgetown, Kentucky, delivered a standout performance at the Chris Brickley Invitational, competing against some of the best high school talent in the nation. Moreno filled the stat sheet with 18 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and a block—showcasing not only his size and finishing ability, but also improved court vision and touch in transition.

Analyst Chris Beasmore praised Moreno’s polished game and growing versatility. He remains one of the top frontcourt prospects in the 2025 class and a likely multi-year contributor under Pope.

The Offseason Is Heating Up—and So Are the Expectations

Between Rondo’s graduation, Combine performances, recruiting buzz, and looming draft decisions, Kentucky basketball has kept the news cycle spinning even in May. The Wildcats’ future is full of promise, but the pressure to deliver is building just as quickly.

With more Combine results, potential transfer targets, and NBA draft updates to come, Big Blue Nation won’t have to wait until fall to stay locked in.

Also Trending in Kentucky Hoops:

• How proposed NCAA game-flow changes could affect UK’s 2025 tempo
• SEC’s “no shot” tier: Which league teams are already out of the title race
• The 5-star forward Kentucky is chasing could be a game-changer
• A CBB analyst’s updated top 25 and Kentucky’s projected starting five.