In late January, Malachi Moreno, a junior center from Great Crossing High School (Ky.), received communication from UNC basketball coaches. Shortly after, Tar Heel assistant Sean May attended one of Moreno’s games. Despite these interactions, the 7-foot-1, 220-pound four-star prospect, known for his agility despite his towering stature, currently holds no reported offer from head coach Hubert Davis and the UNC coaching staff. Moreno is positioned at No. 33 overall on the 247Sports 2025 Composite rankings.
Since May’s visit to Kentucky in February, there has been minimal discussion regarding UNC’s potential interest in Moreno. However, Moreno recently informed Rivals’ Rob Cassidy over the weekend that the Tar Heels have been one of the most consistent and engaged parties in reaching out to him recently.
Cassidy notes that Moreno’s residence is conveniently located within a 30-minute drive from Lexington, suggesting close ties to the Kentucky basketball scene. During John Calipari’s tenure, Moreno ranked high on the Wildcats’ recruiting wishlist. Now, with Calipari at Arkansas, Moreno remains a priority recruit for the Razorbacks. Meanwhile, new Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has intensified efforts to recruit Moreno, gearing up for another unofficial visit.
In a previous interview with On3, Moreno expressed a desire to finalize his college decision by June. However, this timeline may have shifted. Regardless, there is anticipation surrounding whether UNC basketball, yet to formally engage in recruiting a center for the 2025 class, will extend an offer to Moreno before the window closes.
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