At this stage of the offseason, the transfer portal usually becomes very quiet. Most teams have their rosters nearly finalized, with only a few notable names or high-upside prospects still available as programs look to add finishing touches. Kentucky stands out as one of the rare teams with significant financial resources left to allocate and several remaining roster gaps to fill.
By securing Franck Kepnang over the weekend, Mark Pope addressed the Wildcats’ need for a backup center provided that Malachi Moreno returns from the NBA Draft. We should know soon enough. Either way, Kepnang brings veteran experience and aggressive rebounding, making him a reliable depth piece in Lexington. The caveat, however, was that he was entering his seventh year of college basketball. After recurring knee issues, the big man sought a hardship waiver from the NCAA for an extra season of eligibility.
Predictably, as reported by Pete Nakos, the waiver was granted. Kepnang is now officially cleared to anchor the paint for Kentucky in the 2026–27 season.
Franck Kepnang Cleared to Play
Following a season at Washington where he appeared in 27 games, Kepnang seems to be trending in the right direction with his persistent injury concerns. If he can stay healthy, Kentucky fans should be very pleased with his production.
Last season, Kepnang averaged 2.1 blocks per game (second in the Big Ten), along with 6.3 rebounds and 6.2 points. He thrives on doing the dirty work, getting low in the paint and handling the gritty tasks. But he can also elevate with authority check out this dunk against Iowa, shared by Matt Jones on X.
Did it count? No. Does that matter? Not to me either. It was a questionable call that erased what could have been one of the nastiest dunks of the season. Now in blue and white, Wildcats fans can expect this kind of explosive rim-running on a regular basis.
Kepnang significantly raises the floor of Kentucky’s roster, especially the second unit. Taking chances on high-ceiling young players can yield big rewards, but sometimes it’s just as effective to lock in a seasoned veteran who has been through it all.
Kentucky’s frontcourt now appears largely complete, and it’s hard to imagine a better final addition than Kepnang a true dog turned Wildcat.
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