Kentucky Wildcats Set to Host Mackenzie Mgbako Amid Transfer Portal Buzz

Mgbako’s Basketball Background Mgbako was initially a 5-star recruit and a McDonald’s All-American in the 2023 class. He first committed to Duke before ultimately choosing Indiana. Ranked as the No. 10 overall prospect and the second-best power forward in his class, Mgbako received interest from elite programs, including Kansas, North Carolina, Michigan, and UCLA.

Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 222 pounds, Mgbako combines size, versatility, and scoring ability, making him an attractive prospect for any team seeking a player with flexibility in their forward positions.

College Career and Development During his freshman year at Indiana (2023-24), Mgbako averaged 12.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 39.5% from the field and 32.7% from beyond the arc. His standout performance earned him the title of Big Ten Freshman of the Year.

In his sophomore season (2024-25), Mgbako demonstrated marked improvements in efficiency. He maintained his 12.2 points per game average while increasing his shooting percentages—43.7% from the field and 32.9% from three-point range. His two-point field goal percentage also saw a jump from 45.3% to 52.6%, indicating a more refined offensive game. Despite fewer free-throw attempts, he remained consistent at the line, shooting 81.7%.

Kentucky’s Potential Fit Under the leadership of head coach Mark Pope, Kentucky is looking to add versatile forwards to complement their evolving playing style. Mgbako’s blend of size and perimeter shooting would be a great asset to the Wildcats, who are in need of a dynamic scoring presence.

Having competed in the challenging Big Ten conference, Mgbako brings valuable experience that could enhance Kentucky’s offensive depth. With the Wildcats’ system emphasizing floor spacing and up-tempo play, Mgbako could thrive in such an environment, leveraging his strengths.

What’s Next for Mgbako? Mgbako has confirmed that he will not return to Indiana, opting to declare for the NBA Draft while exploring transfer options. While Kentucky is a top contender for his services, he is expected to evaluate several programs before making a final decision.

As one of the most highly coveted players in the transfer portal, Mgbako’s choice will have significant implications, both for his future in basketball and for the competitive landscape of college hoops next season. Kentucky fans are optimistic that Coach Pope will be able to secure Mgbako’s commitment sooner rather than later.