Kentucky Contacts North Carolina Transfer Cade Tyson in Pursuit of Key Perimeter Talent

In a significant move that could impact the 2025 college basketball landscape, the University of Kentucky has reportedly reached out to North Carolina transfer Cade Tyson, expressing interest in adding the talented guard to its roster. This contact comes as the Wildcats seek to strengthen their perimeter presence under new head coach Mark Pope, who has wasted no time reshaping the program’s identity following the departure of longtime coach John Calipari.

Tyson, a 6-foot-7 sharpshooting wing originally from Monroe, North Carolina, entered the transfer portal after an impressive sophomore season at Belmont, where he averaged 16.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and shot over 46% from beyond the arc. He later committed to the University of North Carolina but has now reopened his recruitment, attracting immediate interest from several major programs — with Kentucky emerging as a serious contender.

Known for his elite three-point shooting and polished offensive game, Tyson would provide Kentucky with a much-needed scoring threat on the wing. The Wildcats struggled with consistent perimeter production last season, and Tyson’s ability to stretch defenses and create off the dribble makes him an ideal fit for Pope’s fast-paced, modern offensive system.

Sources close to the situation report that Kentucky’s staff sees Tyson not just as a role player, but as a potential cornerstone of next season’s lineup. Coach Pope, who gained a reputation for maximizing talent at BYU, is reportedly making a strong push to bring Tyson to Lexington, offering both a significant role on the court and a chance to shine on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The recruiting pitch is clear: at Kentucky, Tyson would not only compete for a national championship but also gain exposure that could elevate his NBA draft stock. With NIL opportunities also playing a larger role in recruitment, Kentucky’s storied program and devoted fan base offer a lucrative platform for high-profile transfers like Tyson.

Tyson’s decision will be closely watched across the college basketball world. With multiple blue-blood programs vying for his commitment, the next few weeks will be pivotal. For Kentucky, landing Tyson would be a major win in the transfer portal and a statement of intent as the program enters a new era.

As the recruitment process unfolds, fans can expect more developments and possibly visits or meetings between Tyson and the Kentucky coaching staff. One thing is certain — the Wildcats are not standing still, and with players like Cade Tyson in their sights, Kentucky is aiming high in its quest to return to national prominence.