Five programs contact Kentucky transfer Ugonna Onyenso in first hour in the portal

On Tuesday afternoon, Kentucky forward Ugonna Onyenso entered his name in the NCAA Transfer Portal. Per On3’s Jamie Shaw, Alabama, Oklahoma, Georgetown, Louisville and Florida reached out to Onyenso less than an hour after his announcement.

Onyenso spent two seasons at Kentucky. This past season, Onyenso played in 24 games, starting the last 14. The 7-foot sophomore averaged 3.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game, the seventh-most in the country.

Onyenso’s best performance of the season came against Florida when he exploded for 13 points, 16 rebounds and eight blocks in 33 minutes. Onyenso tallied a career-high 10 blocks in Kentucky’s win over Ole Miss on Feb. 13.

In his freshman campaign at Kentucky, Onyenso made 16 appearances off the bench. He averaged 2.5 points, 2.6 rebounds and one block per contest while shooting 52.9% from the field. Onyenso did not attempt a 3-pointer in his two seasons at UK.

Ugonna Onyenso played high school basketball at Putnam Science Academy (CT), where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 31 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Ugonna Onyenso initially declared for the 2024 NBA Draft

Onyenso’s decision to enter the transfer portal is a harsh contrast from his statements from just over a week ago. On April 15, Onyenso declared for the NBA Draft and hired an agent, telling ESPN that he was not considering a return to college basketball.

“I want the NBA to know that I am a big that can shoot the ball,” Onyenso said. “I am not just a defensive player. It’s not only about blocking shots with me. I did what I needed to do to help the team, but I don’t think anyone saw what I am capable of doing. I am excited to show people that. My ability to shoot, put the ball on the floor and create for myself. My goal is to get better these next couple of months, and be confident in everything I need to do in this process.

“As of today, I don’t plan on entering the transfer portal,” Onyenso said. “I feel like I am ready for the NBA. I haven’t met with Mark Pope, I only spoke on the phone with him three days ago. I’m ready to go to the next level and show what I can do, but I’m not closing any doors.”

Now, Onyenso will search for a new home at the collegiate level instead. He will have two years of eligibility remaining.