Kentucky women’s basketball’s quiet but effective offseason
After a chaotic first offseason defined by controversy, Kenny Brooks and Kentucky women’s basketball have quietly reloaded. While the headlines focused on the dismissal of hometown favorite Cassidy Rowe—an issue Brooks never publicly addressed—the actual roster work has been strong, if understated.
Brooks, entering Year 2 in Lexington, made key moves on both the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal. The result? A more balanced and competitive roster, built to rebound from a disappointing end to the 2024 campaign and begin charting a course toward the top of the SEC.
Kaelyn Carroll headlines
The biggest hype comes from Kaelyn Carroll, a top-20 recruit according to ESPN. A dynamic guard who can defend and score, Carroll projects to push for immediate minutes in Kentucky’s backcourt, which sorely needs production following the departure of All-American Georgia Amoore.
She’ll be counted on early—and often.
Frontcourt foundation remains strong
Kentucky’s strength lies up front, where three key returners form the backbone of the rotation:
- Clara Strack (F, 6-5, Jr.) – A walking double-double, Strack averaged 15.4 PPG, 9.7 RPG, and 2.4 blocks per game last season. Her presence in the paint gives UK a consistent anchor.
- Teonni Key (F, 6-4, Sr.) – Physical and efficient, Key posted 11.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per contest while shooting over 50% from the field.
- Amelia Hassett (F, 6-3, Sr.) – A stretch forward who adds versatility, Hassett knocked down 32.7% of her threes and grabbed 7.9 rebounds per game.
This trio offers Brooks a rare blend of experience, size, and production. The loss of Clara Silva hurts, but Strack should be even better next year.
Wing and guard depth returns from redshirts
The Wildcats also expect help from two players who redshirted last season:
- Jordan Obi (G, 6-1, 6th Year) – A versatile scorer who missed 2024 due to injury, Obi’s return could give UK a major lift in perimeter scoring and leadership.
- Dominika Paurová (G, 6-1, RSo.) – Still developing, Paurová brings length and international experience to the wing.
Backcourt rebuilt via transfer portal
The backcourt overhaul continues with a trio of experienced transfers, headlined by former Georgia Tech standout:
- Tonie Morgan (G, Georgia Tech) – A true difference-maker, Morgan averaged 13.7 PPG, 5.6 APG, and shot 48.9% from the field. She’ll likely start at point guard on Day 1.
- Josie Gilvin (G, Western Kentucky) – A physical, efficient guard who scored 13.1 points per game on 53.2% shooting. She brings SEC-ready toughness.
- Asia Boone (G, Liberty) – Nearly identical numbers to Gilvin (13.1 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.4 APG), Boone gives UK depth, scoring, and strong rebounding at the guard spot.
Add in Lexi Blue, a former four-star recruit, and suddenly the backcourt has talent.
Eyes on November
Despite the early PR blunder, Brooks may have pieced together one of the most quietly effective offseasons in the SEC. But for all the offseason maneuvering to matter, Kentucky needs results.
The Wildcats open their 2025-26 season on November 3rd vs. Morehead State, and from there, the pressure will mount. With a rebuilt roster and high expectations, the question is no longer whether Kenny Brooks can bring talent to Lexington.
It’s whether he can turn it into wins.