Despite a $22 million spent on NIL deals for Mark Pope’s Kentucky, the team’s finish was pretty disappointing. They were eliminated in the second round. Rick Pitino’s St. John’s, on the other hand, reached the Sweet 16. Now, both teams are chasing a highly rated transfer forward who would cost a fair amount.
Kiyan Anthony’s teammate and Syracuse transfer forward Donnie Freeman has gained interest from both Pitino and Pope. Reports suggest that Pitino’s St. John’s has the edge over Pope’s Kentucky. He is going to cost more than $3 million, and St. John’s currently has the highest offer on the table.
Donnie Freeman averaged 16.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 23 games last season. He is now looking for a team to play for his junior year.
The transfer portal has been busy so far in the offseason. Teams are planning to strengthen their teams and rebuild. As for Rick Pitino’s St. John’s, they are looking to bring in some players who can propel the team to a deep NCAA tournament run. Mark Pope’s Kentucky finds itself in a bit of a ditch, from which they are desperate to come out.
Rick Pitino and Mark Pope’s transfer portal activity
Elite Eight hero Dylan Darling and Pitino’s star big man Zuby Ejiofor have entered the transfer portal. As for additions, Quinn Ellis has committed to St. John’s. While Ian Jackson and Bryce Hopkins are returning, St. John’s is still in need of some more quality.
As for Mark Pope’s Kentucky, it has been a hit-and-miss for the Wildcats. They are desperately waiting for Tyran Stokes to commit, as they have lost the likes of Robert Wright III, Sebastian Rancik, Paulius Murauskas, Eric Reibe, and Leroy Blyden Jr. As for additions, Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins have joined Kentucky.
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