Malachi Moreno breaks silence after inking new two-year contract with….

In a significant move for the University of Kentucky’s basketball program, 6-foot-11 center Malachi Moreno from Georgetown, Kentucky, has officially signed an agreement to join the Wildcats for the 2025-26 season. This signing marks a pivotal addition to head coach Mark Pope’s 2025 recruiting class. ([ukathletics.com](https://ukathletics.com/news/2024/11/13/kentucky-native-malachi-moreno-signs-agreement-with-uk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Moreno, a standout at Great Crossing High School, is highly regarded in the 2025 recruiting class. He is ranked as the No. 25 overall prospect and the No. 3 center nationally by 247Sports. ([247sports.com](https://247sports.com/college/kentucky/article/malachi-moreno-signs-with-kentucky-239695240/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) His commitment to Kentucky underscores the program’s emphasis on securing top-tier talent, particularly from within the state.

Upon signing, Moreno expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Wildcats, stating, “It’s a dream come true to play for Kentucky. I’ve always wanted to represent my home state at the highest level, and I can’t wait to get started.” His decision reflects a deep-rooted connection to the Kentucky basketball tradition and a desire to contribute to its storied legacy.

Head coach Mark Pope lauded Moreno’s abilities, asserting, “I believe that Malachi Moreno is the best center in the country in this class. He is an elite-level passer with incredible tracking vision. He has a ferocity around the rim in terms of ball protection, and he is willing to engage physically. He is going to grow into an elite-level shooter.” ([ukathletics.com](https://ukathletics.com/news/2024/11/13/kentucky-native-malachi-moreno-signs-agreement-with-uk/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Moreno’s senior year statistics are a testament to his impact on the court. He is averaging 21.4 points and 14.9 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 69.2% from the field. His performance has been instrumental in leading Great Crossing to a 17-4 record, including a 12-1 mark against Kentucky teams. ([247sports.com](https://247sports.com/college/kentucky/article/malachi-moreno-kentucky-basketball-mcdonalds-all-american-244833224/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

In addition to his commitment to Kentucky, Moreno has been honored as a McDonald’s All-American, joining an elite group of players recognized for their outstanding high school careers. ([lex18.com](https://www.lex18.com/sports/great-crossings-malachi-moreno-named-mcdonalds-all-american?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) This accolade further cements his status as one of the nation’s premier basketball talents.

Moreno’s signing is part of a broader recruiting success for Coach Pope and the Wildcats. Alongside Moreno, Kentucky has secured commitments from other top prospects, including guards Jasper Johnson and Acaden Lewis. This trio forms a formidable foundation for the Wildcats’ 2025 class, which currently ranks among the top in the nation. ([sports.yahoo.com](https://sports.yahoo.com/kentucky-gets-3-key-signees-101600405.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

As Moreno prepares to join the Wildcats, expectations are high for his future contributions. His combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence positions him as a potential game-changer for Kentucky. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching his development as he transitions to collegiate basketball, anticipating that he will play a crucial role in the Wildcats’ pursuit of national prominence.

In summary, Malachi Moreno’s official signing with the University of Kentucky represents a significant milestone for both the player and the program. His arrival is eagerly anticipated, with the promise of bolstering the Wildcats’ roster and contributing to their storied basketball tradition.