Seven-Foot Lexington Native Reece Potter Transferring From Miami (OH) to Kentucky in Major Frontcourt Boost for Wildcats
Reece Potter, the seven-foot center from Lexington, Kentucky, is coming home. After spending his freshman season at Miami (OH), the skilled big man has officially entered the transfer portal and committed to the University of Kentucky. His decision to join the Wildcats gives new head coach Mark Pope a vital frontcourt piece with size, upside, and local roots, sparking a new wave of excitement for Big Blue Nation during a period of roster overhaul and program transition.
For Potter, this move represents both a return and a fresh beginning. A product of Lexington Catholic High School, Potter was one of the most promising in-state prospects in recent years. Known for his height, shooting touch, and potential as a stretch big, he initially drew interest from several high-major programs before committing to Miami (OH). His freshman campaign with the RedHawks was modest statistically—he averaged just 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds in 9.6 minutes per game—but those numbers do little to reflect his long-term potential. What stands out is the foundational skill set: fluid mobility for his size, an intriguing shooting stroke from mid-range and deep, and a developing feel for the game.
Kentucky’s new staff clearly saw those tools and recognized what Potter could become in a different environment. Mark Pope, who himself played center at Kentucky during the program’s 1996 national title run, has been aggressive in reshaping the roster since taking over for John Calipari. The transfer portal has been a primary mechanism in Pope’s approach, and securing Potter gives the Wildcats a long-term developmental piece who doesn’t just fill a need for size but also fits the new offensive philosophy being installed in Lexington.
Unlike previous Kentucky teams that relied heavily on blue-chip freshmen and one-and-done talent, Pope’s vision involves multi-year players, veteran leadership, and a more balanced, adaptable style. In this system, Potter may not be expected to carry a heavy burden immediately, but the opportunity to grow and contribute is very real. Pope’s staff has emphasized spacing, ball movement, and skill development—traits that align well with Potter’s current strengths and areas for growth.
Potter’s decision also carries symbolic weight. For a Lexington kid to come home and wear the Kentucky uniform is always a story that resonates with fans, especially in a state where basketball passion borders on religion. The Wildcats have not always had success keeping local prospects in-state, but Pope’s early efforts suggest that reconnecting with Kentucky’s high school and AAU pipelines will be a priority. Adding Potter is a clear message that the door is open for homegrown talent to thrive in the program once again.
While Potter’s impact in the 2025–26 season remains to be seen, the long-term trajectory is what excites coaches and fans. Seven-footers with shooting ability and coordination are rare, and development often takes time. With proper strength and conditioning, individualized skill work, and the chance to practice daily against high-level competition, Potter’s ceiling could rise significantly in Lexington. There’s no pressure for him to be an instant star, but rather to grow into a consistent contributor who can stretch defenses, protect the rim, and give Kentucky versatility in the frontcourt.
It’s also worth considering the ripple effects Potter’s commitment may have on the rest of the roster. His presence as a stretch big could open up driving lanes for attacking guards, allow for creative offensive sets, and give Pope more lineup flexibility. Whether playing alongside a more traditional post player or anchoring a smaller, faster lineup as a floor-spacing five, Potter brings options that weren’t always available to Kentucky in recent years.
And of course, there’s the fan aspect. Kentucky supporters love a hometown story, and Potter has the chance to become a fan favorite quickly. With NIL opportunities more available and better organized under Pope’s tenure, there is potential for Potter to build his personal brand while contributing on the court. The connection between player and community has always been a pillar of Kentucky basketball’s identity, and Potter’s arrival strengthens that bridge.
From Miami (OH)’s perspective, losing Potter is a blow to their long-term plans. They saw him as a developmental big with upside and hoped he could become a central figure in the Mid-American Conference. But the lure of home and the chance to play for a storied program like Kentucky proved too powerful to ignore. For Potter, it’s an opportunity that brings him full circle—from the gyms of Lexington Catholic to the bright lights of Rupp Arena.
While he remains a work in progress, Potter’s potential should not be underestimated. Big men often take longer to develop, and the modern game places increasing emphasis on centers who can stretch the floor and defend in space. Potter has the tools to do both. He already possesses a smooth release from beyond the arc, and his mobility and footwork are ahead of most players his size. If he can add strength, improve his rebounding instincts, and become more assertive on the court, there’s no telling how high his ceiling might be.
It also helps that Potter will now be coached by someone who understands his position intimately. Mark Pope’s own experience as a center—one who had to battle for minutes and earn his role—gives him a unique ability to mentor and develop young bigs like Potter. The coaching staff has already proven capable of identifying under-the-radar talent and maximizing it, and Potter seems to fit that mold perfectly.
Beyond the court, this is also a good cultural fit. Potter understands what Kentucky basketball means. He grew up in the city, in the shadow of Rupp Arena, likely dreaming of donning the blue and white. That emotional connection can fuel growth and commitment in ways that pure talent sometimes cannot. For a rebuilding Kentucky squad looking to establish a new identity under Pope, players who are fully bought in—both to the vision and the school—will be invaluable.
In many ways, Potter’s commitment is more than just a roster addition. It’s a sign of the program’s evolving direction under Pope, a validation of the importance of recruiting local talent, and an indication that Kentucky intends to compete in a modernized landscape where player development, chemistry, and buy-in matter as much as recruiting stars. With Potter, the Wildcats are getting a prospect with raw tools and deep ties to the community—and those two elements could blend beautifully as Kentucky enters its next era.
As the summer progresses and the 2025–26 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Potter integrates with the rest of the roster. Will he carve out a rotation spot early? Will he use this year to grow and become a key piece down the line? Regardless of his immediate role, his presence will matter. Fans will cheer for him louder. Coaches will invest in him deeply. And Potter, if he embraces the grind and the moment, could write a very special chapter in Kentucky basketball history—one that started in his own backyard and may end with banners hanging above it.
