According to Pete Nakos of On3, Robert Morris forward Alvaro Folgueiras has trimmed his transfer list to three finalists: Kentucky, Providence, and Tennessee. And if you’re keeping tabs on Kentucky’s portal momentum, this is one name you’ll want to remember.
Folgueiras had a breakout season in 2024-25, averaging 14.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game while shooting a crisp 54.8% from the field and 41.3% from three. At 6-foot-8, he brings size, skill, and shooting touch — the exact kind of player Pope has made a priority in his system.
The former Colonials star is originally from Spain and saw a huge jump in production from his freshman to sophomore year. He more than doubled his minutes and turned into a go-to option, showing flashes of a modern stretch-four who can pass, rebound, and defend multiple spots.
Why Kentucky makes sense
With rumors swirling that Brandon Garrison is leaning toward the transfer portal, adding a player like Folgueiras becomes even more important. But even if Garrison stays, depth is still an issue. Folgueiras wouldn’t just plug a hole — he’d offer versatility and a high-IQ game that fits perfectly in Pope’s motion-heavy offense.
He’s not a traditional big, but that might be the point. Folgueiras can space the floor, operate out of the high post, and play alongside rim protectors or other forwards. He’s also a reliable free-throw shooter and isn’t turnover-prone, rare traits for a player with his usage rate.
Who’s the competition?
Providence offers a strong pitch with Kim English trying to replace former Cat Bryce Hopkins who opted to go to St. Johns.
Tennessee brings an elite 8, and a chance for immediate playing time.
But Kentucky has momentum. After adding Jayden Quaintance and targeting shooters like Lamar Wilkerson, Pope has a real chance to stack talent in year two. Landing Folgueiras would be another major win — both for fit and upside.
What’s next?
A decision is expected soon, and Kentucky’s recent portal success could be the deciding factor. If Pope reels in Folgueiras, it’ll be yet another example of how quickly the new staff has adapted to the transfer era — and how serious they are about building a contender now, not later.
For a program searching for toughness, versatility, and frontcourt balance, Alvaro Folgueiras checks every box. Now it’s just a matter of closing the deal.