Former Kentucky Mr. Basketball Travis Perry has entered the transfer portal just before the spring window deadline. The state’s all-time leading high school scorer averaged 2.7 points in 9.7 minutes per game during his freshman season with the Wildcats, starting only four of his 31 appearances.
Perry’s decision comes as Kentucky’s backcourt grows increasingly crowded with new additions. The Lyon County native, who scored a record-breaking 5,481 career points in high school, appears to be seeking a program where he can secure more playing time and showcase the offensive talents that made him a consensus four-star recruit.
Ole Miss Rebels
Chris Beard’s Rebels have emerged as an early frontrunner for Perry’s services. The Ole Miss head coach publicly admired Perry during the NCAA Tournament, and the program has a significant need at point guard heading into next season.
NEW: Kentucky true freshman guard Travis Perry has entered the NCAA transfer portal, @PeteNakos_ reports.https://t.co/mzMe9lva6f pic.twitter.com/5NUFSCwvHj
— On3 (@On3sports) April 23, 2025
Ole Miss was among Perry’s final five choices during high school recruitment, and he made multiple visits to Oxford. The established relationship with Beard and a clear pathway to playing time make the Rebels a compelling option. However, Perry must continue developing defensively to thrive in Beard’s system.
Western Kentucky
The Hilltoppers offer Perry the advantage of proximity to home, with Eddyville just a two-hour drive from Bowling Green. Head coach Hank Plona, appointed in 2024, is known for implementing an exciting, fast-paced style that could showcase Perry’s offensive abilities.
Western Kentucky was among Perry’s final five schools during his initial recruitment, and reports indicate they’ve already reached out since his entry into the portal. While the roster currently has several guards, the local connection and potential fit in Plona’s up-tempo system make WKU an attractive mid-major option.
Cincinnati Bearcats
The Bearcats, now competing in the Big 12, have roster spots available for the upcoming season under head coach Wes Miller. Cincinnati has already welcomed Kentucky guard Kerr Kriisa as a transfer this offseason, showing Miller’s willingness to bring in talent from the Wildcats program.
Perry previously considered Cincinnati during his high school recruitment, taking both official and unofficial visits to the university. His prior interest and the program’s need for guards make the Bearcats a strong contender, though Perry would need to assess how he might share duties with Kriisa.
Indiana
New Hoosiers head coach Darian DeVries brings an offensive philosophy emphasizing shooting, which perfectly matches Perry’s strengths. Indiana extended a scholarship offer to Perry in 2023, and he previously played AAU basketball for Indiana Elite, establishing connections to the state.
While Indiana’s backcourt is becoming more crowded with recent additions, Perry’s proven shooting ability could be particularly valuable in DeVries’ system. His decision might hinge on whether he sees a clear path to substantial playing time with the Big Ten program.
Arkansas
The Razorbacks present an intriguing option due to the presence of John Calipari, who initially recruited Perry to Kentucky. Despite reaffirming his commitment to the Wildcats after Calipari’s departure, Perry’s entry into the transfer portal suggests shifting priorities.
The SEC’s rule requiring in-conference transfers to sit out a season adds complexity to this potential destination. While Perry’s offensive skillset would likely translate well to Calipari’s system, competition for playing time at Arkansas would remain fierce, given Calipari’s recruiting prowess.
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Perry’s shooting ability and basketball IQ could make him a valuable addition to any program. Still, his decision will likely prioritize playing time and offensive fit over conference prestige or coaching connections.
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