Malachi Moreno, the 6-foot-10 star center from Great Crossing High School in Georgetown, Kentucky, recently made his college commitment official by choosing to play for the University of Kentucky. For Moreno, this decision wasn’t just about basketball—it was about realizing a lifelong dream. Growing up in the Bluegrass State, the idea of wearing the Kentucky blue and white meant everything.
“Growing up in Kentucky, you always wanted to put on that Kentucky uniform,” Moreno said. “Just being able to go there and wear ‘Kentucky’ across my chest means the world to me.”
Moreno, one of the top prospects in the class of 2025, had offers from several prestigious programs, including North Carolina, Indiana, and Louisville. However, the opportunity to represent his home state and play under new Kentucky head coach Mark Pope ultimately sealed the deal. His commitment made him the first recruit to pledge to Pope’s 2025 class.
The highly-rated four-star center had an outstanding high school career, capped by leading Great Crossing to a state championship. In the title game, he notched a triple-double with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 blocks, earning MVP honors. He finished his senior season averaging 21.6 points, 14.9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game, solidifying his place among the nation’s elite.
Moreno’s passion for Kentucky basketball extends beyond his own playing career. He has taken an active role in recruiting other top-tier talent to join him in Lexington. He’s been vocal in his efforts to bring in players like five-star forward Nate Ament, telling him that Kentucky is “a real true place where you can reach your dreams.” Moreno praised the program’s facilities, the family atmosphere under Coach Pope, and the culture of development that Kentucky is known for.
His commitment and leadership have already energized Kentucky fans and staff alike. As he prepares to make the transition to college basketball, Moreno is expected to be a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ future. His combination of size, athleticism, and character makes him a perfect fit for the storied program.
With dreams of national championships and professional aspirations ahead, Moreno’s journey is just beginning—but it starts exactly where he always hoped: in Kentucky blue.
