Kenny Brooks finally broke the silence for Kentucky on the transfer portal after almost a week of silence with an unexpected (pun intended) pledge to begin the week. A five-star recruit and former UConn Husky, will play her junior year in the blue and white, according to Talia Goodman.
Despite averaging just under a basket per game this past season, Patterson has had plenty of time under renowned coach Geno Auriemma, waiting for her chance to shine in the limited playing time.
Patterson will also be surrounded by a strong base of talent in Lexington, including Maddyn Greenway and Clara Strack. Patterson is probably moving for a more enticing, free opportunity given the roster’s still thin composition. That’s what Kenny Brooks ought to be able to offer.
A Better Opportunity for Patterson
But that possibility also puts pressure on her to reach her full potential. The Big Blue Nation is fully aware that being labeled a five-star athlete never goes away, with the occasional top-ranked player passing through town and earning a reputation based on how high they fly.
After her rookie season in 2022–2023, Patterson was unable to play due to multiple ailments, including a persistent patellar tendinitis. Now that she appears to be in better health and is prepared to play again, Memorial Coliseum will support the new Wildcat.
The near-veteran forward, who stands six feet two, is a promising and low-risk addition to Coach Brooks’ expanding team. Fans of the Cats will follow her as closely as anybody else, but regardless of the situation, leaving UConn and Auriemma for the big blue is a decision that is respected.
Additionally, a crazy portal season is just getting started. BBN should hope that Patterson’s commitment is just the first domino to fall because Brooks is cooking ahead of his third year.
