Malachi Moreno has withdrawn from the 2026 NBA draft and will return to the University of Kentucky for another season [1, 2].
The decision keeps a high-profile prospect in the collegiate ranks, altering the landscape for the Wildcats' roster and the projected depth of the next professional draft cycle.
Moreno, a freshman center, evaluated feedback from professional scouts before deciding to return to Lexington [1, 3]. He was projected as a second-round pick in the 2026 NBA draft [1]. By returning to school, Moreno aims to continue his development and improve his standing among NBA teams [1, 3].
The announcement came in late May 2024, which placed the decision just one week before the official NBA draft withdrawal deadline [1, 3]. This timing allowed the player and his representatives to gauge interest from professional franchises before committing to another year of college basketball [3].
Moreno's return provides the University of Kentucky with a verified interior presence for the upcoming season. His development over the next year will be a primary focus for the program as they seek to maximize his professional potential [2].
While some early reports indicated the decision was still pending, the confirmation of his return to the University of Kentucky clarifies the team's outlook for the sophomore season [2]. The center will now focus on collegiate competition to elevate his draft trajectory [1, 3].
“Malachi Moreno has withdrawn from the 2026 NBA draft and will return to the University of Kentucky.”
Moreno's decision reflects a growing trend of 'one-and-done' prospects opting for a second year of college to secure first-round lottery status. By avoiding a second-round projection, he leverages the university's resources to increase his guaranteed money and draft position for the following year.
