Key Dates to Know for the Kentucky Basketball Offseason
The college basketball offseason is moving quickly, and the transfer portal is buzzing with activity. Below are the major dates the Kentucky Wildcats will be tracking throughout the spring and summer:
Tuesday, April 21 Transfer Portal Window Closes
Players now have just a two-week window to officially enter the transfer portal. This deadline applies only to entering the portal those already in can still visit schools and commit afterward.
Friday, April 24 (11:59 PM ET) NBA Draft Early Entry Deadline
By this date, we’ll know which players plan to continue testing the NBA Draft process. At this point, Malachi Moreno and Jayden Quaintance appear to be the only Wildcats likely to explore the draft.
Thursday, April 30 Recruiting Period Ends
This marks the last day of the April recruiting period for both high school recruits and transfers. Schools have been allowed to conduct on-campus and off-campus visits since April 10. A quiet period begins May 1–9, during which off-campus, in-person recruiting isn’t allowed.
May 8–10 NBA G League Combine (Chicago)
Otega Oweh could use this event to raise his draft stock and potentially earn an invitation to the main NBA Combine.
May 10 NBA Draft Lottery (Chicago)
May 10–17 NBA Draft Combine (Chicago)
May 27 (11:59 PM ET) NCAA Early Entry Withdrawal Deadline
College players like Malachi Moreno must decide by this date whether to pull out of the draft and return to school.
June 13 (5:00 PM ET) NBA Early Withdrawal Deadline
This is the NBA’s official cutoff for early entrants to withdraw from the draft.
June 23 (8:00 PM ET, Brooklyn) 2026 NBA Draft: First Round
If Jayden Quaintance stays in the draft, this is likely the night his name will be announced.
June 24 (8:00 PM ET, Brooklyn) 2026 NBA Draft: Second Round
With a strong pre-draft showing, Otega Oweh could hear his name called late in the second round—unless he opts to pursue a fifth year of college.
July 9–19 NBA Summer League (Las Vegas)
This stretch should feature Otega Oweh and other former Kentucky players competing for roster spots and showcasing their potential on the NBA stage.
