The Kentucky Wildcats women’s basketball team had a terrific season that saw them make a run to the Sweet 16. Coach Kenny Brooks and his squad had one of the program’s best runs, and could be even better next year.
Obviously, the transfer portal could change some things. Players could leave that weren’t expected to, or they could add a big piece, and be even better off than before. It opens up on Apr. 7, and Kentucky will certainly look to add a few players who can help immediately.
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The biggest news, of course, is the announcement that All-SEC center Clara Strack will return for her senior season. She will be the centerpiece of the squad, and a veteran leader with plenty of young talent around her. The Wildcats also have a trio of freshman set to make an impact. All three were McDonald’s All-Americans, and could become stars.
Next year’s team should be poised to make another postseason run, maybe an even deeper one. Here’s a pre-portal look at the roster, and the changes that fans will see.
Leaving Kentucky
Jordan Obi – A former Penn transfer, Obi had her Kentucky career delayed by an injury. She did a little of everything for the Cats this season. Scoring, shooting, and rebounding were all strengths, and she was a valuable player for them. She’s out of eligibility.
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Tonie Morgan – The Wildcats needed a point guard, and Morgan gave them a great one. She proved to be one of the best passers in the country, and could score when necessary. Though she was only here one year, she made a big impact.
Teonni Key – One of the trio of frontcourt stars for Kentucky, Key was a big part of their successes. Her ability to score from multiple angles made her dangerous, and she defended well too. She leaves a big hole on the roster.
Amelia Hassett – A deadly shooter from three-point range, Hassett was another member of Kentucky’s terrific frontcourt. She was also a solid rebounder, but her shooting touch was excellent, and changed the way teams had to defend them.
Josie Gilvin – A transfer from Western Kentucky, Gilvin came over and provided some solid minutes as a perimeter defender. She didn’t work her way into a starting role, but provided depth at a couple of different positions.
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Lexi Blue – So far, Blue is the only player to announce she’s transferring away from Kentucky. She never really found a fit in the lineup, and will look for more playing time elsewhere.
Recruiting additions
Maddyn Greenway – One of three elite recruits Brooks landed this offseason, Greenway is ranked in the top ten overall. She is great at both creating a shot for herself, or driving and dishing to a teammate.
Savvy Swords – Another McDonald’s All-American, Swords is a scoring forward who chose Kentucky over some elite offers from schools like South Carolina, Notre Dame, and UCLA. She will be a difference maker.
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Emily McDonald – The Wildcats can always use another sharpshooter, and McDonald is as good as anyone at it. She dominated the three-point contest at the McDonald’s All-American game, beating the best the boys and girls both had to offer.
Returning to Kentucky
Clara Strack – Getting back a potential All-American is always big, and Strack is one of the best centers in the country. Her offensive game continues to develop, and as a defender, she can be dominant. It’s a huge win to get her back for next season.
Gabby Brooks – It’s hard to imagine Brooks heading elsewhere. She showed some flashes last season, and continues to work on her game, looking for ways to contribute.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky women’s basketball: A look at next year’s roster