Kentucky staff cautiously optimistic about their chances with Jalen Duren

The Kentucky Wildcats basketball roster is practically set for the 2021-22 season, but there are a few potential pieces as the coaching staff is waiting for their decisions to come out.

One of those pieces is five-star center Jalen Duren.

It was reported several weeks back that he was considering a reclassification to the class of 2021 from 2022, but was disputed by Jalen himself shortly after.

Rumors are still out though, that the move is very much in play. It also sounds like John Calipari and his staff like their chances in this recruitment, no matter what class he falls into.

Jack Pilgrim of KSR released a summer practice report this week, and he had this to say about what he is hearing regarding Duren from people close to the program.

“Should he turn down his professional options, Kentucky, Miami (FL) and Memphis are the top schools on his long list of suitors, with UK cautiously optimistic about pulling off the late surprise.”

You can find his full practice report in the tweet below.

It is starting to pick up steam that if this reclassification does happen, it is more likely that Duren plays college basketball next season whether than going the pro route.

Fans should know that Duren is the type of player you make room for if he wants to be on the roster next season. He would instantly take this Kentucky team to another level, and solidify themselves in the title contender tier.

Duren (6-10 230lbs) is currently ranked as the No. 2 overall player in the class of 2022 by 247 Sports Composite. His official visit to Kentucky is set to happen in the coming days. Let’s see if the optimism continues to grow once he sees what Calipari and his staff have to offer, but it sounds like the Cats will be right there until the end.

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