As the Kentucky Wildcats gear up for the 2025–26 college basketball season under new head coach Mark Pope, fans are buzzing about the wave of new talent joining the team. Between high-profile transfers and elite high school recruits, Pope has assembled a roster that is expected to be ranked in the top 10 nationally when the season tips off. But when ESPN’s Jeff Borzello revealed his pick for Kentucky’s top newcomer, it wasn’t the name most fans expected.
In a recent article highlighting the top incoming player for each team in ESPN’s preseason Top 25, Borzello chose former Pitt standout Jaland Lowe as Kentucky’s most impactful addition. That selection may raise eyebrows, especially considering the presence of highly touted recruit Jayden Quaintance, a five-star prospect ranked among the best in the 2025 class. However, Borzello offered a clear explanation for his decision.
“Jayden Quaintance is the highest-ranked newcomer arriving in Lexington,” Borzello noted, “but there are questions about his availability after he suffered a torn ACL in late February. So, we’re going with Lowe, a third-team All-ACC selection at Pitt last season who will have to adjust his game in Coach Mark Pope’s offense. Surrounded by a slew of shooters, however, he’s likely to be more efficient.”
Lowe, a dynamic point guard known for his playmaking and court vision, averaged impressive numbers in the ACC and showed the ability to lead a team. However, there is still room for growth, particularly in his shooting efficiency. Under Pope’s modern, fast-paced, and shooter-friendly offensive system, Lowe may find the ideal environment to take the next leap in his development.
While fans might have penciled in Quaintance as the immediate impact player, especially given his raw athleticism and upside, his injury status leaves some uncertainty. That puts extra pressure—and opportunity—on Lowe to take the reins and guide this talented roster.
If Lowe adapts quickly and finds his rhythm, Kentucky could emerge not just as a top team, but as a legitimate national title contender. Whether he soars or takes time to adjust, there’s no question that Jaland Lowe will play a pivotal role in how far the Wildcats go this season.
