Syracuse menās basketball: Francis Folefac commits to Orange
Francis Folefac commits to Syracuse Orange basketball, reuniting with coach Gerry McNamara.
Me'Arah O'Neal, a transfer from Florida, has committed to Kentucky women's basketball. The 6-foot-4 forward averaged 13.6 points and 6.4 rebounds last season, enhancing Kentucky's frontcourt.
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LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - JANUARY 15: Me'Arah O'Neal #8 of the Florida Gators celebrates after making a shot in the second quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Memorial Coliseum on January 15, 2026 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Kentucky womenās basketball have added a major piece to their frontcourt, as Florida transfer MeāArah OāNeal announced her commitment to Kentucky via Instagram.
OāNeal, the daughter of NBA legend Shaquille OāNeal, chose the Wildcats over finalists Virginia, North Carolina, and USC, according to Talia Goodman of On3. The 6-foot-4 forward is coming off a strong sophomore season where she averaged 13.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game, showcasing her ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
Head coach Kenny Brooks needed to reload his frontcourt after the departures of Amelia Hassett and Teonni Key, where both used all of their eligibility and were selected in the WNBA Draft. OāNeal steps in as an immediate replacement and is expected to play a key role alongside star Clara Strack. The pairing gives Kentucky a dynamic and versatile frontcourt with size, scoring, and defensive presence.
OāNeal has already proven she can perform on big stages. She scored 23 points against Kentucky last season while shooting 6-of-12 from the field, and recorded a career-high 24 points in a win over Memphis.
Her commitment marks Kentuckyās third transfer addition this offseason, joining UConn transfer Ayanna Patterson and Alabama transfer Diana Collins. With OāNeal now in the fold, the Wildcatsā roster is quickly taking shape as Brooks continues to build a competitive team in Lexington.
Me'Arah O'Neal averaged 13.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game during her sophomore season at Florida.
Before committing to Kentucky, Me'Arah O'Neal considered Virginia, North Carolina, and USC as her finalists.
Me'Arah O'Neal is expected to play a key role in Kentucky's frontcourt, replacing departed players and teaming up with star Clara Strack for a dynamic lineup.
Francis Folefac commits to Syracuse Orange basketball, reuniting with coach Gerry McNamara.
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