Ryan Lemond has the Big Blue Nation hoping his scoop is true. On KSR just a few hours ago, the show closed with his latest prediction: By the end of the week, the Wildcats will have two more commitments from the transfer portal. The names? San Diego State’s Magoon Gwath and Robert Morris’ Alvaro Folgueiras.
If Lemond is right, these would be two major additions to Mark Pope’s roster, bolstering the Wildcats' frontcourt with length, skill, and versatility. Let’s take a deeper dive into what each player brings to the table.
Magoon Gwath: A Stretch Big with Upside
Gwath, a 6-foot-11 transfer from San Diego State, is ranked No. 13 in On3’s industry transfer rankings as a four-star player. He’s got a smooth shooting touch outside the paint, making him a valuable stretch option in today’s game. However, some question whether his slender frame can hold up against the physicality of the SEC.
Career Stats (2024-25 Season)
- Games Played: 26
- Minutes Per Game: 25.0
- Field Goal Percentage: 50.6%
- Three-Point Percentage: 37.8%
- Free Throw Percentage: 63.0%
- Rebounds Per Game: 5.2
- Blocks Per Game: 2.6
- Points Per Game: 8.5
With his ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim, Gwath could be an ideal modern big for Pope’s system. If he adds strength, he has the potential to be an impact player in the SEC.
Alvaro Folgueiras: A Skilled European Big Man
Folgueiras, a 6-foot-9 Spanish forward from Robert Morris, is ranked No. 15 in On3’s industry transfer rankings. He embodies the modern European big man—highly skilled, with a soft shooting touch and a strong passing game. His ability to stretch the floor and facilitate could make him an invaluable piece for Kentucky’s offense.
Career Stats
2024-25 Season
- Games Played: 35
- Minutes Per Game: 29.4
- Field Goal Percentage: 54.8%
- Three-Point Percentage: 41.3%
- Free Throw Percentage: 78.4%
- Rebounds Per Game: 9.1
- Assists Per Game: 3.2
- Points Per Game: 14.1
2023-24 Season
- Games Played: 32
- Minutes Per Game: 17.5
- Field Goal Percentage: 45.6%
- Three-Point Percentage: 28.6%
- Free Throw Percentage: 73.7%
- Rebounds Per Game: 4.5
- Points Per Game: 5.3
Folgueiras has made a huge leap in efficiency and production, showing that his game is evolving. Pope could help develop him the same way he helped Amari get better as the season went along.
A Much-Needed Frontcourt Boost
With Amari Williams and Andrew Carr departing, Kentucky needs reinforcements in the paint. Gwath and Folgueiras would provide a unique blend of size, skill, and shooting that could make them seamless fits in Pope’s system. Malachi Moreno is already commited, but as seen injuries happen and you need great depth in the SEC.
If Lemond’s prediction holds true, the Wildcats could be locking in two high-upside bigs who address key needs on the roster. Stay with us as we break all news regarding the transfer portal.