Alvin Brooks III and Mikhail McLean named to Roots 66 Most Impactful List

Two of Kentucky‘s assistant coaches are considered among the most elite and impactful up-and-coming names in the basketball world as Alvin Brooks III and Mikhail McLean have been named to the inaugural Roots 66 list.

It’s a group of coaches, administrators, power brokers and visionaries in the industry, selected by Roots, a collection of coaches, administrators, scouts, agents and influencers committed to advancing the game of basketball. Their vision is to provide members with tools, connections and visibility needed to thrive both on and off the court.

“These individuals represent more than resumes and career milestones; they embody passion, resilience, and leadership that is shaping the next era of this profession,” Roots said of the honor. “By spotlighting their journeys and achievements, we are honoring the impact they have already made, while also recognizing their limitless potential to influence the culture, business, and competitive spirit of college basketball for years to come. … Roots 66 is not simply a list, it is a movement. It is a declaration that the future of college basketball will be in great hands, held by guardians that possess the necessary talent, drive, and vision to execute at a high level.”

Both coaches were hired by Mark Pope as part of his debut staff in Lexington ahead of the 2024-25 season, helping lead the Wildcats to a 24-12 record with a run to the Sweet 16 — the program’s first since 2019. Kentucky tied an NCAA record with eight wins over top 15 teams while also becoming the first group in program history to finish a season with six players averaging double-digit points.

In terms of individual roles, Brooks has been involved in recruiting, defensive schemes and scouting while also developing forwards such as Ansley Almonor, Andrew Carr and Trent Noah. He came from Baylor after going 194-72 with the Bears, including a run to the 2021 national championship. The Houston native’s career also includes two junior college titles, one at Arkansas-Fort Smith in 2006 and another at Midland in 2007.

As for McLean, he’s involved in scouting, recruiting and player development — specifically with the Kentucky bigs. He previously worked at Lamar under Brooks’ father, Alvin Brooks Jr., and helped lead the Cardinals to a record-breaking 19-14 season in 2023-24. Outside of collegiate coaching, he’s also the associate head coach of the Bahamian National Team as a native of The Bahamas, with the team since 2021. Team Bahamas made history in 2024 by coming up one game short of qualifying for the Olympics. He was a standout player at Houston, as well, appearing in 101 games as a four-year letterwinner for the Cougars.

Now, both are crucial staff members for Kentucky under Coach Pope — however long the Wildcats have them before they earn their own well-deserved shots as head coaches.

Until then, we’ll celebrate their accomplishments as rising stars in basketball.