Malachi Moreno skips NBA Combine scrimmages; reportedly has strong chance of being first-round pick

TL;DR

Malachi Moreno will not participate in the NBA Combine scrimmages, indicating confidence in his draft stock. Reports suggest he has a strong chance of being a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Key points

Malachi Moreno skips NBA Combine scrimmages
Moreno has a strong chance of being a first-round pick
Kentucky Basketball may struggle if Moreno stays in the draft

Malachi MorenoKentucky WildcatsMississippi State BulldogsNBA Combine

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - JANUARY 10: Malachi Moreno #24 of the Kentucky Wildcats looks up during the game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Rupp Arena on January 10, 2026 in Lexington, Kentucky (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) | Getty Images It’s looking more and more like Kentucky Basketball freshman Malachi Moreno could remain in the 2026 NBA Draft. On Monday, The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported that Moreno will not take part in this week’s NBA Combine 5-on-5 scrimmages. That’s usually a sign that a player likes where his NBA stock is and doesn’t want to risk damaging it in scrimmages. In addition, O’Connor now says there’s a “pretty strong chance” Moreno would be drafted in the first round this year. Between this development and the surprise addition of Washington center Franck Kepnang, it’s safe to think there’s now a very real chance Moreno is staying in the draft, which would be a brutal development for Mark Pope and his rebuilt roster, which was banking heavily on the Great Crossing product manning the 5 spot. While Kepnang is a suitable big man when healthy, he’s missed far too many games in his college career to count on him staying healthy for the duration of next season. In other words, if Moreno stays in the draft, then will be in desperate need of another big man, and there aren’t exactly many good options available at this point. **Add us to your* *to get even more* *content! And as always, Go CATS!!**

Q&A

Why is Malachi Moreno skipping the NBA Combine scrimmages?

Malachi Moreno is skipping the NBA Combine scrimmages likely to protect his draft stock, as he feels confident about being selected.

What are the implications of Moreno staying in the 2026 NBA Draft for Kentucky Basketball?

If Moreno stays in the draft, Kentucky Basketball will face challenges in filling the center position, as they were counting on him for the upcoming season.

What are the chances of Malachi Moreno being a first-round pick?

Reports indicate that there is a pretty strong chance that Malachi Moreno will be drafted in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft.