Malachi Moreno had declared for the 2026 NBA draft after his freshman season with the Kentucky Wildcats. He was projected to be a one-and-done prospect. However, the center decided to withdraw his name from the draft and return to Lexington for another season.
On Wednesday, Moreno made an appearance on the “BBN Tonight” show. When host Maggie Davis questioned him about making a U-turn on his draft declaration, the center named the person responsible for his decision.
Malachi Moreno revealed how his older brother, Michael, has been a strong pillar of support throughout his career. The center said that he decided to return to play at the collegiate level after his brother’s advice.
“Yes (my brother was with me throughout the combine),” Moreno said. “It was awesome. Because, I mean, he was the one that kind of, he’s been driving me nonstop and pushing me to be my best self. We got to experience that together. That was awesome.
“He was, honestly, probably one of the main people I talked to when it came down to the great grind of this decision. Just really, talking to him and see where his mind was and everything. I think having a brother like him has made the process so much easier and made it so much more valuable because he looks out for my best interest as well.
“He’s definitely (excited about me returning to Kentucky). Just because it’s another year with family. … These are years that you don’t get back. And he just tells me to just enjoy the present and just be happy where I am at.”
Last season, Malachi Moreno played in 36 games for Kentucky. He averaged 7.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.5 blocks per game.
CBB analyst has high expectations for Malachi Moreno in 2026
With Malachi Moreno’s return, coach Mark Pope has a reliable player on the roster for the upcoming season.
On the “Field of 68” podcast, analyst Rob Dauster made a bold claim for the center. He believes that Moreno will be better in his sophomore year than 2026 Big 12 DPOY Flory Bidunga.
“I’m gonna plant my flag on Moreno island and say he’ll be better this season than Flory Bidunga. I’m betting on a Malachi Moreno breakout season,” Dauster said.
Apart from Moreno, Mark Pope and his team have also successfully acquired former Iowa State star Milan Momcilovic.
Read More: Mark Pope Posts on Social Media After $6M Milan Momcilovic Coup
Also Read: When is Milan Momcilovic Arriving in Kentucky? Insider Shares Update After $6M Commitment
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