Kentucky’s Denzel Aberdeen Joins First Wave Entering Transfer Portal
Kentucky guard Denzel Aberdeen entered the NCAA transfer portal just after midnight Tuesday. The move came on the first day of the two-week window.
Why a waiver matters
Aberdeen would need an NCAA waiver to play a fifth season. The likely basis is his freshman year, when he totaled just 41 minutes across 12 games.
That season included a late appearance in Florida’s final game, an NIT loss to UCF. Any approval would extend his college eligibility past the usual four seasons.
Recent on-court performance
A 6-foot-5 guard, Aberdeen transferred to Kentucky after three seasons at Florida. He arrived in Lexington last spring after a surprise departure from Gainesville.
During the 2025-26 season at Kentucky, he averaged 13.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists. He logged 30.6 minutes per game and started 35 of 36 contests.
Season milestones
He participated in Senior Day activities on March 7 against his former team. Throughout the season, he gave no public indication he planned to seek a fifth year via waiver.
Draft outlook and timing
Aberdeen, who turns 23 in December, is not viewed as a projected NBA draft pick this year. Entering the transfer portal now preserves his options.
If the NCAA grants a waiver, the portal could allow him to move and still play another college season. The transfer entry comes before the April 21 deadline.
Impact on Kentucky’s roster
The Wildcats remain in search of commitments for 2026-27. Aberdeen’s portal entry is part of early roster movement.
- Mouhamed Dioubate
- Brandon Garrison
- Jasper Johnson
- Jaland Lowe
All four have also entered the transfer portal with remaining eligibility. Leading scorer Otega Oweh will also depart after his fourth and final season. Aberdeen finished second on the team in scoring behind Oweh.
Context and next steps
Kentucky’s Denzel Aberdeen joins the first wave entering the transfer portal amid a busy offseason. His future hinges on the NCAA waiver decision and recruiting developments.
Ben Roberts, Filmogaz.com’s University of Kentucky men’s basketball beat writer, reported on the move and the roster implications. Kentucky coaches and staff must now navigate multiple departures.
