Could the Kentucky Wildcats actually lose Malachi Moreno to the NBA Draft? It’s a question that’s starting to carry a bit more weight than many initially expected.
When Moreno first declared he would explore the draft process, the general belief was that he’d go through evaluations and eventually return to Lexington. That still seems like the most probable decision, but his draft outlook has turned out to be stronger than early projections suggested.
In ESPN analyst Jeremy Woo’s latest 2026 mock draft, Moreno is projected to be selected 43rd overall by the Brooklyn Nets, placing him in the middle of the second round. While that position doesn’t come with the financial security of a first-round pick, it’s still significant enough to make him seriously consider staying in the draft, especially if he believes he can secure a spot among the 60 selections.
In the same mock, Jayden Quaintance is slotted at No. 15 overall to the Chicago Bulls. No other Kentucky players from last season made the list, though former Wildcat Ugonna Onyenso, who wrapped up his college career at Virginia, is projected to go 50th to the Toronto Raptors.
Despite this, Moreno returning for his sophomore season remains the safest prediction. The 2027 draft class is widely viewed as less competitive, and another strong year in college could elevate him into first-round territory.
For now, there’s no immediate reason for concern, but his pre-draft journey will be worth monitoring—especially if he earns an invitation to the NBA Combine in Chicago from May 10–17.