Kentucky basketball: Updated starting lineup predictions for the Wildcats

Projected Kentucky basketball starting lineup: Olivier Sarr, C

While the Wildcats are loaded on the wings they have questionable depth on the blocks. A lot will depend on whether Olivier Sarr, a transfer from Wake Forest, is granted a waiver to become immediately eligible.

Since he did not graduate from Wake Forest Sarr is scheduled to be treated like a regular transfer, meaning he could have to sit out this season before playing in 2021. Sarr has applied for a waiver to gain immediate eligibility and the NCAA’s decision on that front could make a big difference for Kentucky’s fortunes.

It is in Calipari’s best interest to start Sarr, who could average a double-double down low after putting up 13.7 points and nine rebounds a night for the Demon Deacons a year ago. Sarr also held his own in the ACC, a strong sign that he will be up to the challenge of tough SEC competition.

The Wildcats do have some options if Sarr isn’t granted eligibility in the form of freshmen bigs Isaiah Jackson and Lance Ware. Both players are 6-foot-8, a notable size downgrade from the 7-foot Sarr.

There could be plenty of small-ball lineups coming for Kentucky if Sarr isn’t eligible, which could see Brooks play the five while Clarke moves down to the four. Getting that decision from the NCAA soon should be massive for Calipari as he gets to work assembling his gameplans and rotations for the upcoming year.

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