Just days after the Florida Gators celebrated a national championship, they were hit with an unexpected departure. Denzel Aberdeen, a promising guard who contributed significantly during the team’s title run, decided to enter the transfer portal. His next stop: Lexington, where he committed to the Kentucky Wildcats for the 2025-26 season. Until now, little was known about what motivated this sudden switch.
According to On3 Sports’ Sam Gillenwater, Aberdeen described the decision as one that was rooted in close family discussions.
“It really came down to me and my family,” Aberdeen revealed.
He didn’t elaborate much beyond that. The Orlando native was in a prime position to assume a leadership role on the Gators’ roster following the departure of three key guards: Walter Clayton Jr., Will Richard, and Alijah Martin—all of whom moved on to the NBA. Clayton was taken in the first round, while Richard and Martin were picked in the second.
Despite the opportunity to shine in Gainesville, Aberdeen chose a fresh start in Lexington—and he’s embracing it with optimism.
“I’m thankful to Kentucky for reaching out and giving me this shot,” he said. “My goal is to help bring a national championship here. Life doesn’t always go as planned, but I trust that everything happens for a reason—God’s reason.”
In the previous season, Aberdeen made 39 appearances, starting five times. He logged over 19 minutes per game, averaging 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. His shooting stats were solid across the board: 41.8% from the floor, 35% from deep, and 70.8% from the charity stripe.
Now, he joins a stacked incoming class of transfers aiming to elevate the Wildcats. Alongside Aberdeen, Kentucky’s transfer haul includes Jayden Quaintance, Jaland Lowe, Reece Potter, Kam Williams, and Mouhamed Dioubate—each expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming campaign.
