
Former Harlan County basketball star Trent Noah will return to the Kentucky Wildcats for his sophomore season.
Noah posted a photo on social media with the caption “still chasing 9,” a reference to the program’s pursuit of a ninth national championship.
Noah, who came to Lexington last spring billed as the 12th man on Mark Pope’s first UK basketball roster, emerged as a fan favorite in his freshman season with the Wildcats, earning the nickname “Mountain Mamba” — a nod to late NBA star Kobe Bryant, as well as Noah’s own southeastern Kentucky roots — for his clutch shooting efforts. Of the six players from UK’s 2024-25 roster eligible to return next season, three have now confirmed their intentions to remain Wildcats. Noah’s announcement followed those by fellow freshman Collin Chandler and sophomore Brandon Garrison. Graduate Kerr Kriisa transferred to Cincinnati. Freshman Travis Perry has not publicly stated his desire to return but is expected to be back. Otega Oweh plans to go through the NBA draft process but remains eligible to continue his career at Kentucky.