Kentucky basketball projected starting five: a key piece still missing from Mark Pope’s roster

Mark Pope has been busy since getting to Kentucky. After not retaining any of John Calipari's roster, Pope has loaded up in the transfer portal. So here's how his seven portal additions could fit on the court next winter.

West Virginia Mountaineers guard Kerr Kriisa (3)
West Virginia Mountaineers guard Kerr Kriisa (3) | Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
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There isn’t going to be a huge difference between Williams and Garrison at the five. Both are good movers with extreme length who will be two of the best shot-blockers in the country. On the offensive end, Garrison has shown an ability to pass out of the shot roll or finish as a rim-runner, but Williams, the fifth-year senior is the more polished player. 

In each of the past two seasons at Drexel, Williams has averaged over 12 points per game and shot over 50% from the field. Most of his value will be derived from defense, but Williams has shown chops as a passer, either out of the post or from the top of the key.

Pope could use him as a fulcrum on offense, making decisions on dribble handoffs or screening off-ball to create space for Brea and Kriisa to knock down open looks.