As Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats prepare for their Sweet 16 showdown against Tennessee on Friday, they’re also actively shaping their roster for the upcoming season. While the Wildcats are focused on their current NCAA Tournament run, recruiting remains a priority, and one player who has captured their attention is Dedan Thomas, a talented guard in the transfer portal.
Thomas, a dynamic four-star prospect coming out of high school, was ranked among the top 40 players in his recruiting class. Rather than joining a high-major program immediately, he opted to begin his college career at UNLV, where he developed into one of the most productive players in the Mountain West Conference. Over the course of two seasons, he showcased his ability to impact games on both ends of the floor. His sophomore campaign was particularly impressive, as he averaged 15.6 points and 4.7 assists per contest, proving himself as a reliable offensive weapon and floor general.
His production has made him one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal, with 247Sports ranking him among the top five available prospects. His skill set makes him an attractive option for a team like Kentucky, which is looking to retool under Pope’s leadership. Thomas is known for his scoring ability, particularly his efficiency as a shooter and playmaker. His 35% accuracy from beyond the arc last season highlights his ability to stretch the floor, while his court vision and passing make him an asset in any offensive system.
Beyond his scoring and facilitating, Thomas also brings experience and composure to the backcourt—two qualities that are valuable in high-pressure situations. His strong performance at UNLV earned him a spot on the All-Mountain West third team, further solidifying his status as a player capable of competing at a high level.
Pope’s first transfer class at Kentucky was widely regarded as one of the best in the country, and expectations remain high as he enters another crucial offseason. The Wildcats are expected to bring in multiple impact transfers once again, and securing a commitment from Thomas would be an excellent foundation for their 2025 recruiting efforts. With Kentucky aiming to reload for another deep tournament run, adding a proven guard like Thomas could significantly bolster their roster.
