After joining the Kentucky Wildcats, Mark Pope has been working tirelessly as their new head coach.

Pope is currently trying to scout gifted talents at the high school level after bringing in a number of players via the transfer site.

Pope and his team recently spent a weekend in Indianapolis observing and meeting potential candidates who would be a good fit for the new Kentucky program.

One player that has caught Kentucky’s attention is five-star prospect Trey McKenney, who attends Flint, Michigan’s Orchard Lake St. Mary’s.

After McKenney’s outstanding performance in front of Alvin Brooks and others, he spoke with Kentucky Sports Radio.

It would have great meaning. Growing up, I’ve watched Kentucky since I was a child,” McKenney remarked.

During his time in Lexington, John Calipari’s staff did not consider McKenney, but Pope has different ideas for the 6-foot-3 guard. You never anticipate Calipari abandoning Kentucky.

However, Kentucky was a formidable state even before to Calipari. Being able to speak with Kentucky, one of the top colleges for basketball, is a blessing, McKenney said. Michigan, Michigan State, Connecticut, Georgetown, Indiana, Ohio State, USC, and UCLA are among the schools who are interested in McKenney.

At the moment, On3, Rivals, 247 Sports, and ESPN have him ranked 14th overall in the class of 2025, but ESPN has him ranked 13th. McKenney has just been selected for the USA Basketball Men’s U18 National Team for 2024.

He earned a spot on the 12-member team following a five-day training camp in Colorado Springs, which Pope and his staff were present for.