Kentucky Wildcats Target Top Transfer Lamar Wilkerson

Wilkerson’s Breakout Season Draws National Attention

Wilkerson, a 6-foot-5 senior from Ashdown, Arkansas, is coming off a standout season at Sam Houston State. He averaged 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 47.7% from the field and 44.5% from three, ranking among the top shooters in the country. His performance not only earned him First-Team All-CUSA honors for the second consecutive year but also helped elevate his profile as one of the premier guards in the portal.

Known for his perimeter scoring, Wilkerson made 109 three-pointers last season, good for 13th nationally, and hit 20 of those from beyond 25 feet. His shooting efficiency and ability to score in a variety of ways have made him a sought-after addition for programs looking to boost their offensive firepower.

Kentucky Making a Late but Notable Push

Kentucky’s interest in Wilkerson emerged more prominently in recent days. While Indiana is widely considered the frontrunner, bolstered by a prediction from On3’s Pete Nakos, Kentucky has positioned itself as a serious contender. The Wildcats are expected to host Wilkerson on a visit once the NCAA’s dead period concludes, opening the door for on-campus meetings beginning Friday.

Mark Pope’s system places a premium on floor spacing and shooting, and Wilkerson’s skill set aligns with that approach. With over 76% of his threes coming off assists, he fits well within a motion offense that thrives on ball movement and catch-and-shoot opportunities.

A Need Kentucky Could Fill

The Wildcats’ 2025-26 roster is beginning to take shape, but one area that remains a focus is perimeter shooting. Wilkerson’s proven ability to produce at a high level—scoring in double figures in every game last season and reaching 20+ points in over half of them—makes him an ideal candidate to address that need.

He has demonstrated the ability to perform on big stages, logging 18 points against Indiana in Assembly Hall and hitting five threes against Baylor. As the first player in Sam Houston’s Division I history to average over 20 points in a season, Wilkerson has shown he can carry a heavy scoring load against quality competition.

What to Watch

Wilkerson’s final visit schedule has yet to be announced, but interest from top-tier programs suggests a competitive recruitment. Kentucky, while a newer name in the mix, offers a system that could amplify Wilkerson’s strengths. As the April 22 portal deadline approaches, his visits will likely be key in shaping one of the most closely-watched transfer decisions of the offseason.