Malachi Moreno has reportedly received some high-profile advice regarding his looming NBA Draft decision, with many around college basketball believing another season in Lexington could be the best move for his future.
Moreno’s decision remains one of the biggest storylines of Kentucky Wildcats offseason. Head coach Mark Pope has openly acknowledged that bringing Moreno back is a major priority, and Kentucky’s roster construction appears to reflect a plan centered around the talented big man taking over the starting center role.
With only days remaining before the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline, there still has not been any clear indication about what Moreno plans to do. That uncertainty has left Wildcats fans anxiously waiting for updates while hoping the Kentucky native chooses to return for another year.
During an appearance on the Field of 68, college basketball analyst Jeff Goodman shared his opinion on Moreno’s situation and sided with those who believe staying in college is the better path.
“I think the smarter move for him is another year at Kentucky. I think he should come back.”
The “Smarter Move” for Moreno?
Goodman explained that when Moreno initially declared for the draft, Kentucky may have felt it held the advantage in the situation. However, after Moreno’s rapid climb on draft boards, the balance of power may have shifted.
Still, Goodman believes another year developing in Lexington could significantly benefit Moreno before making the jump to the NBA.
“I feel like he probably knows he needs another year in college…” Goodman continued. “His skill-level, his consistency just dominate, dominate at this level, if you can. So I think he should come back, and I think he will.”
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Huge Opportunity Waiting at Kentucky
Moreno posted 7.8 points and 6.3 rebounds during his freshman campaign, but many believe a full offseason of development and conditioning could elevate his game to another level if he returns as Kentucky’s full-time starting center.
Much like Alex Condon benefited from continued development at Florida Gators, Moreno could potentially boost both his production and long-term draft stock by spending another season in college basketball.
Kentucky’s frontcourt situation also appears perfectly set up for Moreno to thrive. Competition for minutes is no longer as crowded, and the opportunity to fully control the paint in Lexington is sitting right in front of him.
While the NBA remains the ultimate goal and first-round consideration is naturally tempting, another year at Kentucky could bring major NIL opportunities along with the possibility of eventually becoming a lottery pick.
For now, many around the program still believe Moreno’s best move is wearing championship blue for one more season.