Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats are officially on the board in the transfer portal. The program picked up its first commitment of the offseason with the addition of Kam Williams. Williams is a 6-foot-7 wing from Lafayette Christian Academy in Louisiana out of high school and played his freshman year at Tulane. Williams, who ranks No. 24 overall and the No. 4 small forward in the 247Sports transfer portal rankings, brings a blend of size, shooting, and defensive versatility that should fit seamlessly into Pope’s system.
A Skilled Two-Way Player
Williams averaged 9.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game last season while shooting an efficient 48.5% from the field, 41.2% from three, and 76% from the free-throw line. His best performance came in a 24-point outburst against UAB, where he shot 9-for-12 from the field. He also recorded one double-double on the season. WIth the long rebounds from 3 point attempts having a solid rebounder is a great thing to have.
What Williams Brings to Kentucky
One of Williams' biggest strengths is his defensive versatility. At 6-foot-7, he has the length and mobility to guard multiple positions on the perimeter, a valuable asset in today’s game. His 41.2% three-point shooting suggests he’ll be a reliable floor spacer and fit the 3 and D mold teams are looking for.
Under Pope, Kentucky has prioritized a style of play that emphasizes shooting, spacing, and cutting, making Williams an ideal fit. His ability to stretch the floor while also being a strong perimeter defender should make him an immediate contributor in the Wildcats’ rotation.
Building the 2024-25 Roster
With Williams locked in, the focus now turns to who else will join him in Lexington. The Wildcats are expected to remain active in the transfer portal, targeting high-level talent like Donovan Dent, and role players to supplement the bench. Pope’s first offseason at the helm will be a crucial one as he looks to retool the roster and keep Kentucky rolling after a Sweet 16 appearance (hopefully Elite Eight and beyond).
For now, the Wildcats have landed a player who checks a lot of boxes. Williams is a proven shooter, a capable defender, and someone who should thrive in Pope’s system. Big Blue Nation has its first portal addition—now, the question is, who’s next?