Kentucky basketball projected 2023-24 starting lineup

Center – Tre Mitchell

This is the most debatable of the starting spots because Aaron Bradshaw is the top freshman center in his own right. Coach Cal could be tempted to start Mitchell at the four and Bradshaw at the five. However, that would mean one of Dillingham, Wagner, Reeves, or Edwards coming off the bench in relief.

Ultimately, Mitchell starting and Bradshaw coming off the bench makes the most sense. It allows Bradshaw to learn from an experience big man, and it mirrors what UConn did with Adama Sanogo and Donovan Clingan last year. Not every prized recruit is ready to start at the college game.

It also makes sense for Mitchell to be the anchor from the jump. Having two grad seniors alongside three freshmen balances everything out. Kentucky basketball may even play older than they are because of the mix of different levels of experience. And, as a scoring big man, it gives UK five legitimate threats to put up 20+ points on any night, all within the starting five.