Not-so-good update on Davion Mintz and Keion Brooks

With the news of Orlando Antigua likely making his return to Lexington and Joel Justus heading to Arizona State, we’re starting to hear more and more news regarding the next version of Kentucky basketball.

Now, all we’re waiting on is what the roster will look like for next season. According to Randy Newman of Big Blue Express, there could be some bad news on the horizon regarding Keion Brooks and Davion Mintz.

Here is what Newman had to say regarding both:

Keion Brooks is likely to transfer and I believe that Davion Mintz is likely to leave as well but could possibly be persuaded to stay.

If you’ve been following Newman, you’d know he was the first person to predict Orlando Antigua to Kentucky when this offseason began. He also correctly predicted Kentucky’s entire 2019-20 roster — outside of Keion Brooks and Dontaie Allen — would leave Lexington last offseason, which is exactly what came to pass.

It is seeming likely Brooks may be on his way out for certain, but Mintz could be persuaded to come back, which is at least some good news.

Regarding Brooks, it’s unfortunate because he could be a key piece for next season, especially if Isaiah Jackson does keep his name in the draft. Brooks would almost certainly hold down a starting spot for next season in that case.

If Brooks does transfer, the homestate Indiana Hoosiers appear to be one of, if not the top contender for his services.

While losing both would sting, Mintz would be easier to replace via the transfer portal with the number of quality guard options out there. Brooks will be much harder to replace, but Kentucky does have Jacob Toppin, Lance Ware, Bryce Hopkins and Daimion Collins set to be one next season’s roster.

There is no timetable for when either will make a decision, but with the recent news circulating the UK program, I wouldn’t be shocked if we heard something this week. I also wouldn’t be shocked if we didn’t hear anything for another month, though you do have to wonder if Mintz and/or Brooks weren’t simply waiting to see what coaching staff moves Kentucky made before making their own decisions on where they’ll be next season.

If you want to read more of what BBE had to say, check it out here.

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