Kentucky Targeting Elite ACC Power Forward Transfer

Donnie Freeman could be a perfect fit for Mark Pope's system at Kentucky

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:49pm

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A fractured, multi-angled painting depicting a basketball player driving to the hoop, their form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a cubist style.A cubist interpretation of a power forward's drive to the basket, capturing the dynamism and energy of the game.Charlotte Today

Kentucky is expected to be active in the transfer portal this offseason, especially at the power forward position. One player they are targeting is Donnie Freeman, a 6'9" sophomore forward who is transferring from Syracuse. Freeman had a standout season in the ACC, averaging 16.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game while shooting 47.4% from the field. He would provide the Wildcats with a versatile scoring threat and elite defender at the power forward spot.

Why it matters

Kentucky has several key players leaving the program, including two power forwards. Bringing in a talented player like Freeman could help reload the roster and provide a scoring punch in the frontcourt that the Wildcats lacked at times this past season.

The details

Freeman was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and has shown his potential in the ACC. He has the size, scoring ability, and defensive skills that would fit well in Kentucky coach Mark Pope's system. Freeman shot 30.2% from 3-point range this past season, demonstrating his ability to stretch the floor, and he also has a 2.19 defensive rating, indicating he is an elite defender.

  • Donnie Freeman announced he will enter the transfer portal on April 6, 2026.
  • Kentucky coaches will be able to start contacting transfer players on April 8, 2026.

The players

Donnie Freeman

A 6'9" sophomore power forward who is transferring from Syracuse after averaging 16.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game this past season.

Mark Pope

The head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team, who will be looking to add talent to his roster through the transfer portal.

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What they’re saying

“Donnie Freeman has enticing scoring versatility for a 6-9 forward, and can get a bucket in different ways from all over. He's a rise and fire scorer around the key with a high release, and was an efficient shotmaker from the post.”

— Jonathan Wasserman, NBA Draft Analyst

What’s next

Kentucky coaches will be able to officially contact Donnie Freeman and other transfer targets when the portal opens on April 8, 2026. Freeman is expected to draw interest from many top programs, so Kentucky will have to make a strong push to land the talented power forward.

The takeaway

Securing a versatile and productive power forward like Donnie Freeman would be a major coup for Kentucky as they look to reload their roster through the transfer portal. Freeman's combination of scoring, rebounding, and defensive ability make him an ideal fit for Mark Pope's system, and landing him could help the Wildcats bounce back after a down season.