4 players who could replace Travis Perry’s roster spot
With Travis Perry officially entering the transfer portal, the Kentucky Wildcats now find themselves with an open scholarship and an opportunity to add a fresh piece to Mark Pope’s evolving roster.
Though Perry averaged just 2.7 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists in 9.7 minutes per game as a freshman, his departure still creates an open spot on the roster.
So, who could step in to replace the in-state guard?
We can probably cross off the big remaining names like Chad Baker-Mazara, Boogie Fland, Darrion Williams, RJ Luis, Andrej Stojakovic, and Jamir Watkins. Kentucky can certainly offer those guys big money to come here, but with the roster already being so deep, it’s likely a non-starter (and several of these guys are planning to stay in the NBA Draft).
Acaden Lewis is also likely not an option after backing out of his commitment in hopes of getting a bigger role elsewhere.
If Kentucky does add someone, it will likely be someone lower in the transfer rankings, or it could come from the high school ranks.
With that in mind, here are some candidates to replace Perry’s spot on the roster.
Nick Dorn – Transfer from Elon
One name to monitor is Elon transfer Nick Dorn. At 6-foot-7, Dorn brings intriguing size to the perimeter and fits the mold of a modern-day stretch guard. He attempted 8.4 three-pointers per game last season and connected at a solid 35.1% clip, showcasing his willingness and ability to score from beyond the arc. His shooting range could complement Pope’s spacing-heavy offense and provide a boost off the bench. He also has two years of eligibility remaining.
Jaiden Glover – Transfer from St. John’s
Kentucky has already made contact with Jaiden Glover, and he’s still in search of his next school. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound freshman averaged 2.2 points on 34.7% shooting (33.3% from deep on 1.4 attempts per game) in just 6.4 minutes per contest this past season. The connection between Rick Pitino and Mark Pope could also make Glover someone who gives Kentucky a hard look if they come calling.
Georgia Kimble – Transfer from EKU
Kentucky may have an intriguing candidate who plays just about 30 minutes away from Rupp Arena. Georgia Kimble is a former Division II transfer who had a standout sophomore season in Richmond, averaging 18 points on 38% shooting (34.8% from deep on 7.4 attempts per game), 3.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.6 steals per contest. He has two years of eligibility remaining and scored 24 points (9/20 shooting) in a near-upset at Louisville this past season.
Braydon Hawthorne – 2025 4-Star prospect
Perhaps the most intriguing option is class of 2025 four-star wing Braydon Hawthorne. Kentucky recently hosted the 6-foot-8 standout from West Virginia on an official visit. With a 7-foot-3 wingspan and a growing reputation as a two-way player, Hawthorne brings significant upside.
Ranked No. 48 nationally by On3, he has interest from several top programs, but Kentucky could be in a prime spot to secure a commitment. If Pope wants to plan for the long term while also addressing roster depth, Hawthorne would be a strong addition.
