Kentucky in danger of missing on another top transfer portal star

TL;DR

Kentucky Wildcats are at risk of losing top transfer target Donnie Freeman to St. John's after a recent visit. Coach Mark Pope needs to secure more talent from the transfer portal to avoid further disappointment this offseason.

Key points

Kentucky Wildcats need a talent infusion this offseason
Mark Pope's job may depend on securing top transfers
Donnie Freeman was a key target but St. John's is now favored

Kentucky WildcatsSt. John'sDonnie Freeman

This is a huge offseason for Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats. After last season's disappointment, Pope needs a big year, or his time in Lexington could be over. To do that, he needs a talent infusion from the transfer portal, but it has been slow going so far. They landed a pair of backcourt additions in Zoom Diallo and Alex Wilkins, but need more. Forward Donnie Freeman was set to be their biggest commitment yet, but that may now happen now.

Freeman visited the Wildcats last week, and then canceled a visit to Connecticut, which many took as a sign he was close to signing with Kentucky. However, On3's Pete Nakos is reporting (subscription required) that St. John's entered the mix with a bigger offer, and is now the favorite to land him.

Injuries have dogged the former five-star recruit so far, but the talent is undeniable. He missed a lot of games in his first two seasons, but when he was on the court, he averaged more than 16 points and 7 rebounds per game.

A decision hasn't been made yet, but it would be another huge swing and miss from Pope. Kentucky has some very good pieces, but right now have a huge hole at power forward, and lack depth up front overall. With the top players in the portal coming off the board, losing Freeman would be a huge blow.

We will update this story as it continues to develop.

This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky basketball could miss on transfer portal star Donnie Freeman

Q&A

Why is Donnie Freeman's decision important for Kentucky basketball?

Donnie Freeman's commitment is crucial for Kentucky as they lack depth at power forward and need a talent infusion after a disappointing season.

What recent developments have affected Donnie Freeman's recruitment?

Freeman canceled a visit to Connecticut, which initially suggested he might commit to Kentucky, but St. John's has since made a bigger offer and is now the favorite.

How has Donnie Freeman performed in his college career so far?

Freeman, a former five-star recruit, has averaged over 16 points and 7 rebounds per game when healthy, despite missing many games due to injuries.