Kentucky's Clara Strack Emerging as Elite Center

Coach Kenny Brooks believes Strack is the best center in the country as Kentucky prepares for NCAA Tournament play.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:30pm

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Kentucky junior Clara Strack is emerging as one of the top centers in women's college basketball. Strack, a transfer from Virginia Tech, has broken the UK single-season blocks record two years in a row and is on the verge of becoming the school's all-time leading shot blocker. Kentucky coach Kenny Brooks believes Strack is the best center in the country, and the 6-foot-5 standout has the numbers to back up that claim, averaging 17.1 points, 10 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game this season.

Why it matters

Strack's dominant play in the paint has been a key factor in Kentucky's success this season, as the Wildcats earned a 5-seed in the NCAA Tournament. Her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes Kentucky a dangerous team heading into March Madness, with the potential to make a deep run.

The details

Strack was named the 2025 SEC Defensive Player of the Year after transferring from Virginia Tech when Brooks left for Kentucky. She has broken the UK single-season blocks record two straight years and is on pace to become the school's all-time leading shot blocker. Strack is also on the verge of joining UK's top 10 list in career rebounds after just two seasons. She recently became the first SEC player 6-foot-5 or taller to hit five 3-pointers in a game, showcasing her versatile skillset.

  • Strack was named the 2025 SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
  • Strack has broken the UK single-season blocks record two straight years.
  • Strack is on pace to become UK's all-time leading shot blocker.

The players

Clara Strack

A 6-foot-5 junior center for Kentucky who has emerged as one of the top players in the country, averaging a double-double this season.

Kenny Brooks

The head coach of the Kentucky women's basketball team, who believes Strack is the best center in the country.

Tonie Morgan

The Kentucky point guard, who says Strack makes her job a lot easier and is the best post player in the country.

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What they’re saying

“Clara is developing into a leader. Knowing her and knowing just her personality, she's the type of player that does not want to disappoint me. Doesn't want to disappoint anyone.”

— Kenny Brooks, Head Coach, Kentucky Women's Basketball

“She makes my life a lot easier. She makes my job very easy. I think everybody says it in the locker room. She's the best player — best post player in the country.”

— Tonie Morgan, Point Guard, Kentucky Women's Basketball

What’s next

Kentucky will face 12-seed James Madison in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Saturday, with the winner advancing to play the winner of 4-seed West Virginia and 13-seed Miami (OH) on Monday.

The takeaway

Clara Strack's dominant play in the paint has made Kentucky a dangerous team heading into the NCAA Tournament, with the potential to make a deep run. Her combination of size, skill, and defensive prowess makes her one of the best centers in the country, and her leadership has been crucial for the Wildcats this season.