LEAD STORY: Moreno Headlines Kentucky's Rising NBA Draft Stock
Kentucky big man Malachi Moreno is generating serious buzz as a potential lottery pick in the 2027 NBA Draft, and the national draft media is taking notice. Sports Illustrated's Derek Parker ranked Moreno as the third-best returning college player among 2026 NBA prospects, noting the Georgetown, Kentucky native "fell victim to the depth of the '26 class" despite production that would have made him an intriguing late-first-round bet in most years.
The numbers back up the hype. As a freshman, Moreno averaged 7.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.5 blocks in just 22.6 minutes per game, flashing real versatility on the interior. Moreno tested the draft waters this offseason and drew first-round buzz before choosing to return to Lexington — a decision that could pay off handsomely in what is widely projected to be a weaker 2027 class.
Moreno isn't the only Wildcat on draft radars. ESPN's Jeremy Woo slots Moreno 31st overall in his 2027 mock draft, with Iowa State transfer Milan Momcilovic — a 6-foot-8 forward who shot 50.6% from the field and a blistering 48.7% from three last season with the Cyclones — checking in at 39th. CBS Sports' Cameron Salerno is more bullish, mocking Moreno 18th overall to the Memphis Grizzlies and Momcilovic 27th to the New York Knicks. If more Wildcats join that first-round conversation, it likely means a special season is brewing in Lexington.
QUICK HITS
Red River rivalry gets personal: Texas' head coach didn't mince words at SEC Media Days when asked about former Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone, who transferred to arch-rival Oklahoma this offseason. "I hope we kick his ass," he said, per On3, before adding, "After the game, I'm sure I'll give him a big hug. Before that, we're trying to beat his ass." Livingstone caught 29 passes for 516 yards and six touchdowns for Texas in 2025 — and even threw a touchdown pass to quarterback Arch Manning.
Gator gold rush at USATF: Florida great Malcolm Clemons earned a silver medal in the long jump on the opening day of the USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships, with two additional Gators advancing in their respective events.
No age-limit reprieve: The NCAA Division I Board doubled down Thursday on its new age-based eligibility rule, announcing no plans to change course even as some athletes head to court seeking to extend their college careers.
Barnes documentary incoming: Tennessee Athletics and The Media Center announced "It's Not About Me," a Land Grant Films and UT School of Journalism and Media project detailing the life and career of the Volunteers' head men's basketball coach, premiering July 30.
Mizzou books Vegas trip: Missouri men's basketball announced an exhibition matchup against UNLV in Las Vegas on October 29, giving Tigers fans an early look at the roster before the season tips off.
PORTAL WATCH
No new transfer portal movement in the last 12 hours, but the fallout from earlier moves dominated SEC Media Days in Tampa. The Livingstone saga — a starting Texas wideout landing at Oklahoma ahead of the Red River Rivalry — is shaping up as one of the juiciest storylines of the 2026 season. On the hardwood, Kentucky's addition of Iowa State transfer Milan Momcilovic already looks like a coup, with the sharpshooting forward cracking the first round of multiple 2027 NBA mock drafts.
RECRUITING BUZZ
No new commitments overnight, but Texas made waves this week as No. 1 cornerback John Meredith reclassified to the 2026 class and signed with the Longhorns. Several veteran Texas players weighed in on the addition at SEC Media Days, per 247Sports, with the staff signaling they'll see how far the young corner can go this fall.
GAMES TO WATCH
No games on today's slate. With SEC Media Days wrapping up in Tampa — Mississippi State and Texas A&M were among the programs taking the podium — talking season is officially here, and the countdown to kickoff begins in earnest.
