Kentucky Basketball in the Mix for a Highly Touted Transfer

Kentucky Basketball in the Mix for a Highly Touted Transfer

After an underwhelming first three seasons at North Florida, Lanier exploded for 19.7 points per game last season and nearly had 50/40/90 shooting splits. He shot an unbelievable 44% from three on 7.5 attempts per game. He is also an incredible athlete and defender. Upon entering the portal, he was immediately coveted by the nation’s best programs. Kentucky is one of the teams that has appeared to have a legitimate shot at landing his services.

The Wildcats have landed some incredible players from the portal so far. This includes a few elite guards like Koby Brea, Kerr Kriisa, and Lamont Butler. But, it appears Mark Pope wants another lead guard. Kentucky and Arkansas were competing for the services of FAU transfer Johnell Davis before he decided to head to Fayetteville. This left his spot open, which Pope now wants to use on Lanier. Despite this, bringing a ball-dominant guard into an already crowded backcourt is still a tough sell. If Pope can convince Lanier to come to Lexington, Kentucky will start the season as one of the title favorites.

Other Teams Interested In Lanier

Tennessee

Kentucky Basketball’s biggest rival, Tennessee, is the biggest threat for Lanier at this point. Lanier is a Nashville native and was linked to the Vols before he even entered the portal. Rick Barnes is looking to find his next Dalton Knecht with Lanier. Both players have similar skill sets, they are highly athletic guards who can also hit threes at an efficient clip. Tennessee also offers a much better situation than Kentucky. The Vols have not been nearly as active in the transfer portal, so the backcourt in Knoxville is a bit less crowded. With that being said, Kentucky is still a blue blood and will definitely play a factor in this recruitment.

BYU

Another school in the mix for Lanier is BYU. This won’t be the first time BYU and Kentucky are linked together this offseason as current Kentucky head coach Mark Pope coached at BYU for the last 5 years. After Pope’s departure, BYU’s roster took a tremendous hit with six players entering the portal. If Lanier were to go here, he would be the star of the team. However, BYU seems like a long shot in this recruitment.

Where Will Lanier End Up?

At this point, it appears to be a Kentucky and Tennessee battle. While other schools could always enter, it seems unlikely at this stage. After he visits Kentucky today, Lanier will be visiting Tennessee soon. There will likely be a decision soon after. It is believed that Tennessee is the current frontrunner in this recruitment. The Vols have been in on Lanier for a while and the hometown sell is helpful. But, never count out Kentucky, especially in the NIL era.