Kentucky players share heartfelt messages of support to community after devastating tornado

On Friday night, tornadoes rampaged across the U.S. Midwest and South, leaving horrific wreckage in their wake. No state was left more devastated by the storms than Kentucky.

On Saturday, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced that 18 Kentuckians were killed in the storms and 10 more were hospitalized in critical condition. Seventeen of the 18 deaths occurred in Laurel County, home of former Wildcat Reed Sheppard.

While former players and coaches shared their condolences with the Kentuckians affected by the storms, new Wildcats reached out to fans as well. This weekend, several of Kentucky basketball’s incoming transfers sent their heartfelt regards to Big Blue Nation.

“Praying for every single person that was affected by the storms yesterday,” Pittsburgh transfer guard Jaland Lowe wrote.

“Praying for everyone who was damaged by the tornado in Kentucky,” Tulane transfer forward Kam Williams said. “Many lost their lives and homes and that ultimately, affects family in multiple different ways. Once again, please join me with showing full support to the Kentucky community.”

“My deepest condolences to all the families in Kentucky who lost someone during the recent storms that hit the state. My prayers are with you Kentucky. Stay strong,” Alabama transfer forward Mouhamed Dioubate wrote.

Kentucky fans didn’t take the kind-hearted words for granted. Hundreds of fans responded with grateful messages on social media, affirming they’d be in Rupp Arena to return the support in the upcoming season.

The Wildcats should give fans plenty to cheer about in the upcoming season. Along with boasting the No. 2 incoming class in On3’s 2025 Team Transfer Portal Rankings, Kentucky is returning Brandon Garrison, Collin Chandler and Trent Noah.

Moreover, 2025 All-SEC Second-Team selection Otega Oweh is expected to run it back in Lexington next season, though he is currently testing the NBA Draft waters. To pile on, Kentucky is adding four-star freshmen Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno.

The heartbreaking storms hit especially close to home for Kentucky’s latest addition, Reece Potter. The 7-foot-2 Miami (OH) transfer attended Lexington Catholic High School, only a few miles down the road from UK. The Bluegrass native didn’t hesitate to reach out to his fellow Kentuckians.

“Sending my prayers to my Kentucky family that was impacted by the devastation last night,” Potter wrote on X. “Praying for fortitude and strength during this difficult time.”

From the moment he was introduced as Kentucky’s next head coach, Mark Pope has emphasized to his players the importance of giving back to the state. Evidently, Kentucky’s newest Wildcats are already soaking in Pope’s guidance.