JUST IN: Kentucky Makes Huge Announcement After Final Push for Game-Changing, Standout Transfer

The recruitment saga of Sam Houston State, a standout, has reached its final stretch, with just two contenders left in the race. After canceling previously planned visits to Auburn and Ole Miss, he has narrowed his focus to two powerhouse programs: the Kentucky Wildcats and the Indiana Hoosiers. With visits now concluded and deliberations underway, a commitment announcement is expected soon.

Final Stretch of Visits
He just concluded back-to-back official visits to Indiana and Kentucky—his only two visits before ending his recruitment process. According to KSR’s Jack Pilgrim, the 6-foot-5 guard will return home on Monday to review his options with family. A final decision is anticipated by the end of the week. Reports suggest momentum could be tilting in Kentucky’s favor. On3’s Jamie Shaw noted that the Wildcats are currently “carrying momentum” in the race. While Indiana remains a serious contender and could make one last push, Kentucky seems to be edging ahead.

Lamar Wilkerson’s Rising Profile
Coming off a breakout season, Lamar Wilkerson has quickly become one of the most sought-after players in the NCAA transfer portal. He averaged 20.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game as a junior. His shooting splits—47.7% from the field, 44.5% from deep, and 82.2% at the line—underline his efficiency and versatility. He scored in double figures in every contest and surpassed the 20-point mark 17 times. Ranked No. 26 overall in the portal, he stands as the seventh-highest available player, and any program in need of a polished scorer would find him an excellent addition.

Kentucky vs. Indiana: What’s on the Table
The Wildcats, under new head coach Mark Pope, are putting together a balanced and experienced roster. With 12 scholarship players already signed for the 2025–26 season, Wilkerson would be the finishing touch—a dynamic two-way guard who can slot in seamlessly and add scoring punch. Kentucky’s infrastructure and depth offer a strong appeal, especially for a player seeking competitive postseason potential.

Indiana, on the other hand, presents a different path. With only four scholarship players confirmed for next season, the Hoosiers have plenty of minutes up for grabs. Wilkerson could walk into a starting role and serve as a central figure in Indiana’s rebuild. The Hoosiers have also been assertive in the name, image, and likeness (NIL) space, potentially offering Wilkerson strong off-court incentives to commit.

A Crucial Decision Looms
The decision won’t be simple. As college basketball continues to shift under the influence of NIL and an ever-active transfer portal, top players like Wilkerson are navigating new landscapes where fit, role, and compensation all weigh heavily. Both Kentucky and Indiana have distinct strengths, and the choice ultimately rests with Wilkerson—whether to embrace Kentucky’s established winning culture or Indiana’s promise of instant impact and leadership.

His choice is expected within days, and when it comes, it could tip the balance of power in the 2025–26 college basketball season.