Ugonna Onyenso was seen as a long-term project piece when he committed to Kentucky. Arriving in the United States back in January, he played a single high school season at Putnam Science Academy before reclassifying and joining the Wildcats on campus in late August.
Outside expectations were low, but internally, optimism regarding the 6-foot-11 shot-blocker grew by the practice. Coaches raved about his high basketball IQ, showing off an ability to grasp concepts and learn from mistakes quickly.