Malachi Moreno is creeping into NBA mock drafts and big boards
At the beginning of the season, the script was supposed to be simple. Kentucky Basketball knew that Jayden Quaintance was likely a one-of-a-kind talent. Despite his injury problems, NBA scouts have followed him for years.
But while everyone watched Quaintance, another Wildcat quietly, or maybe not so quietly, made his way onto the draft rolls.
Announcement
Malachi Moreno is forcing his way into the first round, and Kentucky fans may need to start preparing for the reality that they could lose two 7-footers to the league this summer.
The scouts are taking notice by Malachi Moreno
Moreno wasn’t necessarily considered a “one-time” lottery pick when he arrived on campus, but his efficiency forced the situation. Major media outlets now consistently rank him among the top 30 prospects.
FanSided classifies it in No. 20noting, “Despite a fluctuating role, Malachi Moreno looks like an NBA contributor…He has size and strength ready for the next level, as well as impressive agility in space, which allows Moreno to take full advantage of his 7-foot-2 wingspan.”
SB Nation lists it as the 23rd best prospect throughout the class.
Because Moreno is moving up
It’s easy to see why the league is intrigued. In just 22 minutes per game, Moreno is putting up extremely productive numbers: 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.7 blocks. He shoots 58.6% from the field, showing he knows his role and doesn’t force bad shots.
Announcement
“We drafted (Moreno) because we thought he could be a great pass rusher,” Pope said.
But what sets it apart from a standard “rim runner” is its feel for the game. Moreno is averaging 1.7 assists per gamedisplaying a passing ability that NBA teams crave in modern bigs. He can anchor a defense by blocking shots, but is agile enough to guard screens and recover, a prerequisite for survival on an NBA court.
The only weakness
The only thing keeping him from being a lottery lock is the modern NBA’s obsession with space. Moreno hasn’t scored 3 goals in college, only shooting 2 so far.
In a league where the “stretch five” is king, it’s a throwback. Could his versatility outweigh his shooting ability? Yes, probably. You can’t find many very mobile 7-footers.
Announcement
Kentucky fans were preparing to lose Quaintance. They probably weren’t preparing to lose Moreno so quickly. But when you’re 7 feet tall, can protect the rim and pass, the NBA calls you quickly. It’s starting to look like Mark Pope might have to replace more than just one center.
Drew Holbrook has followed the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys his family and Premier League football. You can find it on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion