Names like Malachi Moreno and Jasper Johnson are two standouts as the University of Kentucky, other Commonwealth schools, and schools across the nation benefit from an abundance of Kentucky’s home grown court talent.
These young athletes aren’t just outperforming their peers; they’re setting a benchmark that raises intriguing questions about what lies ahead. What tactics are shaping their game? How might these rising stars’ contributions shape the game’s future in the state? As you explore their stories, you’ll find more than just talent; you’ll uncover a glimpse into the future of the sport itself.
Malachi Moreno (graphic courtesy Instagram)
Malachi Moreno, a top-ranked center from Great Crossing High, is committed to the University of Kentucky for 2025.
Jasper Johnson (photo courtesy Courier-Journal)
Jasper Johnson, a five-star guard from Overtime Elite, is expected to bolster Kentucky’s 2025 recruitment.
In committing to East Tennessee State University, Maddox Huff showcases his emerging talent in Harlan County’s games.
EJ Walker, a rising star from Lloyd Memorial, is gaining attention as a top player within Kentucky.
Acaden Lewis and potential recruit Caleb Wilson promise to strengthen Kentucky’s future basketball roster.
In Kentucky’s 2025 basketball class, a group of standout players is already making waves. Malachi Moreno, the #1 ranked center from Great Crossing High School, has committed to the University of Kentucky. Jasper Johnson, a five-star guard from Overtime Elite, committed to the Kentucky Wildcats last September 5th. Chance Dillingham, playing for St. Xavier, is a vital point guard for the state’s top team. St. Xavier has held the number-one ranking for several weeks, demonstrating their dominance and the impact of this young player. Zander Carter from Ashland Blazer adds depth as a shooting guard, highlighting strong in-state talent. These players form the core of an exciting group destined to leave a lasting mark on Kentucky basketball.
You’ll find no shortage of impressive stats and performances from Kentucky’s rising basketball stars, especially when looking at their summer activities. Ty Price (video to follow) and Lawson Rice from Butler County lit up the courts in AAU and summer leagues, showcasing their talent and contributing to their team’s impressive runs. Andy Johnson shone in the Collins Summer League, proving to be a key player for Great Crossing.
Meanwhile, Keashawn Jordan consistently impressed with high-level performances for Male, while Maddox Huff contributed significant stats in Harlan County’s games. Maddox Huff is also noted for his decision to sign with East Tennessee State University for the 2025-26 season, a testament to his skill and potential. These athletes set the stage for a memorable basketball season, electrifying fans and analysts alike.
On the high school front, teams like St. Xavier and Marshall County achieved outstanding records, with standout individual performances leading their success.
Kentucky’s future in basketball looks exceptionally promising, with a powerhouse lineup of high school prospects and college recruits set to make waves in the sport. Detailed NCAAB player profiles showcase the next generation of talent, including the aforementioned Malachi Moreno, a towering 6-foot-11 center from Great Crossing High School, the top-ranked center for 2025, and has committed to the University of Kentucky. Jasper Johnson, a dynamic five-star guard from Overtime Elite with Kentucky in his sights, adds depth at 6-foot-4.
Zander Carter and EJ Walker are also rising stars for the state, already gaining attention for their seemingly bottomless well of talent. Meanwhile, you’ve got Acaden Lewis committed and Caleb Wilson showing strong interest. These recruits bolster Mark Pope’s impressive haul, placing their class just behind Duke and UConn in national rankings.
Among the wealth of basketball talent from Kentucky, several high school standouts are catching the eye of scouts and coaches alike. There are quality point guards in the Class of 2025 setting the court ablaze, and power forwards poised to dominate. Significant players include:
Chance Dillingham (photo courtesy Courier-Journal)
Chance Dillingham at St. Xavier High, commanding the game as a Point Guard.
Vince Dawson (photo courtesy Facebook)
Vince Dawson from Great Crossing High delivers power moves as a Small Forward, and has committed to Morehead State.
Yamil Rondon from Newport High is showcasing impressive skills in the PG position.
Jordan Mabe at South Laurel High is demonstrating his prowess at Center/Power Forward.
A new chapter is unfolding in Kentucky basketball, driven by rising stars like Malachi Moreno and Jasper Johnson. These young talents are showcasing their potential with standout performances, laying the foundation for what could be legendary careers. Their contributions on the court reflect a team brimming with promise and ambition.
As Kentucky fans watch these players develop, the excitement surrounding the program continues to grow, and with it, hopes of elevating teams to new heights in the seasons ahead.
