The University of Kentucky announced the addition of Franck Kepnang, a 6‑foot‑11 center originally from Yaoundé, Cameroon, who will be eligible for the 2026‑27 campaign. Kepnang arrives after a multi‑year stint in the Big Ten, having played for both the University of Washington and the University of Oregon, and he brings a blend of size, shooting touch, and shot‑blocking ability that the Wildcats hope will bolster their frontcourt depth.
A career defined by steady growth
Kepnang’s college journey began at Westtown High School in Pennsylvania, where he earned a top‑50 recruit ranking before reclassifying. He then spent two seasons at Oregon, reaching the Sweet 16 in his freshman year and later logging a career‑high eight made field goals in a game against North Florida. After transferring to Washington, he developed into a reliable contributor, averaging 5.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game over six seasons across both programs.
During his most recent season with the Huskies, Kepnang started 25 games and posted a career‑high 15 points against Nevada in November. He ranked third in the Big Ten for total blocks (56) and blocks per game, and he recorded nine contests with three or more blocks, including three games with six blocks. His defensive impact was highlighted by a double‑double at No. 5 Purdue in January, where he contributed 10 points and 10 rebounds, and by a 14‑board performance in a win over Oregon later that month.
Beyond raw numbers, Kepnang’s shooting efficiency sits at 55.4 percent from the field, and he has amassed four career double‑doubles. His ability to protect the rim was evident in an upset victory over No. 7 Gonzaga, where he logged 14 points, seven rebounds and five blocks. Teammate Zoom Diallo, also a Kentucky signee, shared the court with Kepnang during his Washington tenure, adding a familiar connection to the new Wildcats roster.
What lies ahead for the Wildcats
With one year of eligibility remaining, Kepnang is expected to compete for significant minutes in the upcoming season, providing the team with a versatile interior presence. Head coach Mark Pope expressed confidence that Kepnang’s defensive instincts and shooting touch will complement the existing lineup, potentially reshaping the Wildcats’ approach in both half‑court sets and transition play. The addition marks a strategic move to deepen the roster as the program looks to contend in the SEC and beyond.