A year ago, whispers followed Malachi Moreno: talented, yes, but perhaps lacking the physical edge needed for the SEC's physicality. Fast forward through a summer under Mark Pope, and those whispers have faded, replaced by admiration for his strength and resilience.
'Incredible progress' for the hometown kid
Pope smiled when asked about the freshman big man after Kentucky’s physical exhibition against Purdue, acknowledging the early perceptions while celebrating the current reality. He recalled seeing Moreno play previously and thinking he was talented but limited.
“I wouldn't use the word soft, but I would have just said he was kind of a one position guy.