League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Match Previews

Kentucky's Malachi Moreno projected as lottery pick in 2027 NBA mock draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 27, 2026, 8:08 PM

Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Kentucky's Malachi Moreno projected as lottery pick in 2027 NBA mock draft

Summary

Kentucky Wildcats center Malachi Moreno is now projected as a lottery pick for the 2027 NBA draft. After returning to Kentucky instead of declaring for the 2026 draft, Moreno is expected to enhance his skills and draft stock throughout the upcoming season. Coach Mark Pope regards him as the best center nationally, and his notable defensive and passing abilities have caught the attention of scouts. A recent mock draft has him going as high as the 11th overall pick, pending further development this season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Moreno is currently with the Kentucky Wildcats.
•He was projected as an early second-round pick before returning.
•He is noted for his shot-blocking and playmaking skills.
•Coach Mark Pope hails him as the nation's top center.
•Mock drafts place him as the 11th pick in the 2027 draft.

Latest Updates

10:05 AMYahoo Sports — Early 2027 NBA Mock Draft has Malachi Moreno projected as a lottery pick
8:08 PMYahoo Sports — A new 2027 mock draft has Kentucky's Malachi Moreno as a lottery pick

What they're saying

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Kentucky Wildcats center Malachi Moreno is expected to be a first round pick in next year's NBA draft, and a new mock draft has him as a lottery pick.
— Yahoo Sports