Most of the 2024-25 Kentucky Basketball roster is set, but there are still four scholarships available. Consequently, Kentucky will be exploring nearly every option that arises in the next month to fill those remaining spots.
A new player to keep an eye on is UCLA Bruins forward Berke Buyuktuncel, who entered the transfer portal on Tuesday.
According to Jon Rothstein, Kentucky is one of several schools that have reached out to Berke, along with Virginia, Ohio State, Louisville, Washington, and Iowa.
Sources: UCLA transfer Berke Buyuktuncel is receiving interest from several schools which includes the following programs.
Nebraska
Virginia
Cincinnati
Washington
Butler
Ohio State
Oklahoma State
Kentucky
BYU
Iowa
Louisville— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) May 3, 2024
Berke, a Turkish recruit from the class of 2023, was ranked 36th overall and seventh among power forwards in his class by 247 Sports. He has represented Turkey in international basketball competitions, notably in the summer of 2023 when he helped Turkey secure third place at the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup.
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 245 pounds, Berke played in 26 games last season, starting eight of them. He averaged 4.5 points, shooting 38.5% from the field and 29.7% from 3-point range, along with 2.5 rebounds per game. He attempted 37 3-pointers, making 11 of them, showcasing his ability to stretch the floor, which aligns with Mark Pope’s emphasis on this aspect with frontcourt transfers he’s been in contact with.
Kentucky’s frontcourt for next season will heavily rely on Amari Williams, Andrew Carr, and Brandon Garrison. Berke could serve as a fourth big man option, competing for an 8th or 9th man role.
Whether Berke is willing to accept such a role or prefers significant playing time at a smaller program remains uncertain. However, Kentucky has shown interest in his services.
You can watch some highlights of Berke in action here!
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