In the ever-changing world of college basketball, one voice always cuts through the noise—Jon Rothstein.
Known for his relentless updates and signature catchphrases, Rothstein recently dropped his updated Rothstein 45, ranking Kentucky as the No. 11 team in the nation heading into the 2025–26 season. But it was his projected starting lineup for the Wildcats that really got Big Blue Nation talking.
With the roster now stacked with defensive-minded transfers and athletic returnees, fans have been hotly debating who Mark Pope will send out as his starting five. Rothstein offered his take—and it could be a preview of Kentucky’s identity next season.
Rothstein’s Projected Starting Lineup for Kentucky
G – Jaland Lowe (So.)
G – Denzel Aberdeen (Jr.)
G – Otega Oweh (Jr.)
F – Mouhamed Dioubate (So.)
C – Jayden Quaintance (Fr.)
The locks: Jaland Lowe, Otega Oweh, and Jayden Quaintance
According to Rothstein, three Wildcats are all but guaranteed to start: Jaland Lowe, Otega Oweh, and Jayden Quaintance.
Lowe, the Pitt transfer, is expected to run the point with pace, precision, and lead the offense.
Oweh, a returning starter, brings two-way toughness and scoring punch on the wing.
And Quaintance, the prodigy, will anchor the frontcourt with elite shot-blocking, mobility, and upside.
This trio forms the backbone of a Kentucky team that should be fierce defensively and explosive in transition.
The wildcard spots: Shooting guard and power forward
Shooting Guard Battle: Aberdeen vs. the Field
Rothstein slots Florida transfer Denzel Aberdeen into the starting backcourt—for now. But that doesn’t mean it’s settled.
Jasper Johnson, a five-star freshman and Kentucky native, will push for minutes right away.
Collin Chandler, returning from a year of getting back into basketball shape, offers athleticism and upside as a scoring combo guard.
All three bring different strengths: Aberdeen’s poise, Johnson’s creativity, and Chandler’s length and bounce. Expect a spirited position battle heading into the fall.
Power forward: Dioubate vs. Jelavic
At the four, Rothstein gives the early nod to Mouhamed Dioubate, a tenacious rebounder and versatile defender.
But don’t overlook Andrija Jelavic, the skilled Croatian forward who could bring much-needed floor spacing and offensive polish. If Pope wants shooting, Jelavic may win out. If he wants a defensive tone-setter, Dioubate holds the edge.
Either way, it’ll be one of the most intriguing camp battles this offseason.
Bench depth and flexibility
What makes this Kentucky roster so exciting is the depth and lineup flexibility. Players like Kam Williams, Jasper Johnson, Trent Noah, and Chandler give Pope the ability to go big, go small, or go all-out defensively depending on the matchup.
Expect to see frequent rotation and possibly a seven- or eight-man core, rather than a locked-in starting five every game. Pope has shown a willingness to adapt game plans and reward defensive effort with minutes.
Rothstein’s outlook: Kentucky is back in the mix
Ranking Kentucky at No. 11 in the country, Rothstein clearly believes Mark Pope’s team will be a force in the SEC and beyond. With three likely starters already locked in and healthy competition brewing at the other two spots, the Wildcats are poised for a return to national relevance—and maybe more.
This isn't just a team with potential.
It’s a team with purpose, identity, and a shot to make serious March noise.