After securing Milan Momcilovic and finalizing his third-year roster in Lexington, Mark Pope immediately shifted his focus to the 2027-28 recruiting class. Within the same week that he landed a five-star transfer, Pope also earned a commitment from five-star freshman forward Ryan Hampton.
Hampton became Pope’s first five-star high school signee and the highest-ranked prep recruit of his coaching career. This addition, especially coming right after Momcilovic, breathed new life into a fanbase that had spent the entire offseason being criticized by rival supporters over recruiting shortcomings.
To say the Big Blue Nation has been enjoying a well-earned victory lap online since Pope accomplished these moves would be an understatement. Keep celebrating, Cats fans make sure they hear you.
Meanwhile, a new rumor indicates Pope is still pushing hard for the 2027 class. First shared by BigBlueDylan on X, Canadian forward Deng Ngor has drawn interest from Kentucky. If Pope can effectively manage their positional similarities, pairing Hampton with Ngor could form one of the most formidable scoring duos in college basketball.
Adding Deng Ngor Would Create a Formidable Pairing
The 2027 recruiting cycle is still in its early stages, especially regarding Ngor. Despite already holding official offers from Auburn, Florida State, Virginia, and others, the forward has not yet received a star rating.
Dylan notes in his post that Ngor has five-star potential, and I would agree. At first glance, Ngor appears to be one of the most complete prospects in the 2027 class.
During the FIBA U18 AmeriCup while playing for Canada, Ngor averaged 10.2 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists per game. His highlight footage also closely resembles Hampton’s game: Ngor can easily elevate over defenders for lobs or jump shots and possesses a quick first step off the dribble.
Anchoring Kentucky’s Lineup
At 6’8″, Ngor will likely fit best at the small forward position which might initially seem concerning since Hampton projects to play the same spot. However, if one of them shifts to power forward or the other stays at the three, Kentucky would suddenly boast a lean, athletic duo anchoring its lineup.
In my opinion, that would make the Wildcats must-watch basketball right from the start, especially if Ngor eventually earns five-star status.
This recruitment may require some patience, as Ngor’s process is just heating up. But if Pope and Kentucky are truly involved, the long-term vision is clear. It also helps that Pope is operating with more confidence on the recruiting trail than ever before he’s on an absolute roll.
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