Franck Kepnang eligible for Kentucky for seventh and final season

Washington Huskies center Franck Kepnang (11) walks off the court with teammates after a win in the Acrisure Series in Palm Desert, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. | Andy Abeyta/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Kentucky basketball has its backup center situation solidified, as Washington transfer big man Franck Kepnang has been granted eligibility for his seventh and final season, according to Pete Nakos of On3.

The 6-foot-11, 223-pound center will bring size, rim protection, and experience to Kentucky’s frontcourt after averaging 6.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game last season while shooting 51.5% from the field in 22.9 minutes per contest. He appeared in 27 games and made 25 starts, serving as a steady interior presence.

Kepnang’s eligibility situation had drawn attention because of his status as a member of the 2020 recruiting class and a career impacted by injuries and season disruptions. However, NCAA precedent involving COVID-19 eligibility, redshirt, and medical waivers has allowed similar players to extend their careers beyond the traditional timeline.

Across his college career, Kepnang has experienced multiple injury setbacks, including limited action over several seasons. Still, his production when healthy has made him a valuable interior defender and rebounder.

The decision mirrors another recent eligibility case with Cam’Ron Fletcher, as he is about to play his seventh season of college basketball as well.

With Kepnang now cleared, Kentucky gains an experienced rim protector expected to play a key role in the frontcourt rotation for the upcoming season.