Moreno Playing His Way Into NBA First Round
The Kentucky Wildcats entered the season with the widespread belief that 7-foot freshman Jayden Quaintance was their likely one-and-done NBA prospect. While Quaintance has battled injuries, another 7-footer in Lexington has commanded the attention of NBA scouts. Center Malachi Moreno, once considered a longer-term prospect, is now surging up 2026 NBA mock drafts and big boards, forcing Kentucky fans to consider the possibility of losing both their big men to the pros this summer.
Moreno's production and efficiency have been impossible to ignore. In just 22 minutes per game, he is averaging 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while shooting a highly efficient 58.6% from the field. His emergence is reflected in recent projections from major outlets; FanSided ranks him as the No. 20 prospect, SB Nation lists him at No. 23, and Sports Illustrated's latest mock draft has him going 28th overall to the Denver Nuggets. Scouts are intrigued by his blend of size, strength, and surprising agility for a player of his stature.
What truly elevates Moreno's draft stock is his advanced feel for the game, particularly his passing. Averaging 1.7 assists, he has shown the ability to operate as a facilitator from the high post, a coveted skill for modern NBA centers. While he is a formidable presence as a shot-blocker and rim-runner, his passing and mobility set him apart. The primary question mark for NBA teams is his lack of an outside shot, as he has yet to make a three-pointer in his college career. However, his unique combination of defensive anchoring, rebounding, and playmaking may be more than enough to solidify his spot as a first-round selection.
QUICK HITS
- Missouri Seeks Rare Road Win: The Missouri Tigers face a tough challenge on the road against the South Carolina Gamecocks today. Winning in conference play away from home has been a historical struggle for Missouri, which has just 26 SEC road wins in 14 seasons. KenPom.com predicts a tight contest, giving the Gamecocks a one-point edge in what is essentially a toss-up.
- Softball Season Opens Strong: Several SEC softball teams started their seasons with impressive victories. The No. 4 Tennessee Lady Vols secured two wins at the NFCA Leadoff Classic, defeating No. 21 Liberty 6-1 before run-ruling Rutgers 9-1. Meanwhile, the Auburn Tigers also started their NFCA Leadoff Classic run with wins over Notre Dame and Michigan State. The No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns overpowered No. 9 Nebraska 15-10 in their opener.
- Alabama Gymnastics Battles No. 1 Oklahoma: The No. 4 Alabama gymnastics team posted a season-high road score but ultimately fell to the top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners, 198.200-197.475. Freshman Azaraya Ra-Akbar had a stellar night for the Crimson Tide, earning career-highs of 9.950 on both vault and floor. Chloe LaCoursiere continued her consistency on the uneven bars, scoring a 9.925 for the fifth straight week.
- Texas Football Announces Spring Game: The Texas Longhorns have officially scheduled their 2026 Orange-White Spring Game for April 18 at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. The event returns after the university canceled it the previous year amid concerns about potential player tampering.
- Tide Track & Field Stars Shine: At the New Mexico Collegiate Classic, two Alabama athletes made their mark on the Crimson Tide's all-time top-10 lists. My'Kell Beck in the men's high jump and Caelyn Harris in the women's long jump delivered standout performances to highlight the first day of the event.
PORTAL WATCH
There has been no new transfer portal activity across the SEC in the last 12 hours.
RECRUITING BUZZ
There are no new commitments to report across the SEC.
GAMES TO WATCH
- Arkansas at Mississippi State - 11:00 AM CT on ESPN2
- Missouri at South Carolina - 12:00 PM CT on SEC Network
- Ole Miss at Texas - 1:00 PM CT on ESPN2
- Oklahoma at Vanderbilt - 2:30 PM CT on SEC Network
- Alabama at Auburn - 3:00 PM CT on ESPN2
- Georgia at LSU - 5:00 PM CT on SEC Network
- Florida at Texas A&M - 7:30 PM CT on SEC Network
- Tennessee at Kentucky - 7:30 PM CT on ESPN