[](https://www.si.com/college/kentucky/men-s-basketball/mark-pope-is-not-done-adding-players-to-the-2025-26-roster)
Mark Pope’s strategic focus on defensive prowess in the transfer portal has significantly enhanced Kentucky’s basketball roster for the 2025–26 season. By securing several top-tier defenders, Pope aims to fortify the Wildcats’ defense, which previously ranked 51st nationally in defensive efficiency during the 2024–25 season. ([On3][1], [A Sea Of Blue][2])
### Key Defensive Additions
* **Amari Williams (Drexel)**: A 6’10” center with a 7’5″ wingspan, Williams is a three-time Colonial Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year. He averaged 12.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game in his senior season. Pope describes him as a versatile defender capable of guarding all five positions. ([Kentucky][3], [Wikipedia][4])
* **Otega Oweh (Oklahoma)**: A 6’5″ guard known for his defensive tenacity, Oweh transferred to Kentucky after a standout sophomore season at Oklahoma. He averaged 11.4 points per game and was recognized for his perimeter defense. ([ESPN.com][5])
* **Lamont Butler Jr. (San Diego State)**: A two-time Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, Butler is celebrated for his on-ball defense and leadership. He played a crucial role in San Diego State’s run to the 2023 NCAA Final Four. ([ESPN.com][5])
* **Brandon Garrison (Oklahoma State)**: A 6’9″ forward, Garrison is recognized for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. He is expected to contribute significantly to Kentucky’s frontcourt defense. 
### Defensive Strategy and Outlook
Pope’s emphasis on acquiring top defensive talent aims to implement a switch-heavy defensive scheme, enhancing rim protection and overall defensive versatility. The integration of these players is expected to elevate Kentucky’s defensive efficiency, positioning them as a formidable force in the SEC and nationally. With these strategic additions, the Wildcats are poised to make significant strides in their defensive performance in the upcoming season.([A Sea Of Blue][6])
* [A Sea Of Blue](https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/5/27/24437500/mouhamed-dioubate-mo-skilled-dennis-rodman-kentucky-basketball-alabama?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
* [A Sea Of Blue](https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/5/27/24438357/otega-oweh-nba-draft-feedback-kentucky-basketball-uk?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
* [A Sea Of Blue](https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/4/29/24419762/tuesday-headlines-improving-kentucky-basketballs-defense?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
[1]: https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/mark-pope-putting-emphasis-defense-transfer-portal/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Mark Pope is putting an emphasis on defense in the transfer portal”
[2]: https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/5/29/24438891/kentucky-basketball-grade-espn-mark-pope-first-season-lexington-uk?utm_source=chatgpt.com “ESPN gives Mark Pope an \”A\” for first season in Lexington”
[3]: https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-basketball-men/article288181720.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com “What Pope’s transfers say about UK basketball next season | Lexington Herald Leader”
[4]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amari_Williams?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Amari Williams”
[5]: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/40038613/kentucky-mark-pope-land-former-oklahoma-guard-otega-oweh?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Kentucky, Mark Pope land former Oklahoma guard Otega Oweh – ESPN”
[6]: https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/4/29/24419762/tuesday-headlines-improving-kentucky-basketballs-defense?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Tuesday Headlines: Improving Kent
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