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Kentucky Basketball: Wildcats’ projected starting lineup for 2022-2023

By Jahlynn Hancock

Kentucky basketball forward Oscar Tshiebwe. (Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports)
Kentucky basketball forward Oscar Tshiebwe. (Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Chris Livingston, Kentucky basketball
Five-star Kentucky basketball commit Chris Livingston. (Syndication: Akron Beacon Journal) /

New additions for Kentucky

Kentucky has both some gems returning from injuries and new additions to their roster from their recruiting class and transfer portal.

Recruiting class

The Wildcats are known for having a five-star recruiting class every year, which has helped them stay a strong program. This year’s five-star duo – Chris Livingston and Cason Wallace – are two, talented new additions and starting lineup possibilities.

Wallace was No. 8 in his recruiting class and is arguably one of the best defensive players in his class, controlling his opponents with his activity and potential for disruptive plays. As a 6-foot-4 combo guard, with good tools, he should be able to put up points right off the bat.

Chris Livingston, a 6-foot-6 wing from Ohio, brings versatility to the front end of the court. Livingston has the potential to be an active scorer, consistent passer and contributor on the glass. The duo together, can be dangerous on the court and anchor a new starting lineup in place of Washington and Sharpe.

Transfers 

With the transfer process underway, Kentucky has been gunning for players that can be valuable to the revamping of their roster. Though the process is not complete and things are not set in stone, there are still a few names floating around who could decide to join Kentucky.

Terrence Shannon Jr. 

A key guard for one of the best defensive teams in the country, Texas Tech, Shannon entered the transfer portal after a brutal defeat against Duke in the Sweet 16. Shannon averaged 10.4 points and 2.0 assists per game for the season and is a dominating defender on the court with his length and mobility.

Shannon could be a strong addition to the Wildcats and provide depth to the remaining and incoming talent they have coming in. Reports have already linked Shannon with Kentucky.

Xavier Pinson

For the second offseason, Kentucky is hopeful to receive the SEC guard from the transfer portal. The 6-foot-2 starting guard from LSU, averaged 9.8 points, 4.8 assists and 2.4 rebounds per game this season, making him a potentially lethal addition to Kentucky and the deep backcourt they have in the works. Pinson has one more season of eligibility remaining and could potentially see himself with the blue and white jersey.