Kentucky has lost another Wildcat to what will be the largest transfer class ever. Junior Saniah Tyler announced on Instagram this afternoon that she would enter the transfer portal. 

“After much thought and prayer, I have decided to enter the transfer portal to explore new opportunities for my future. This decision was not an easy one, as Kentucky has become a home to me in many ways,” Tyler stated in her post. 

Known for her competitive and tough spirit, she became one of only two Wildcats who played for Kentucky pre-Kenny Brooks.

Of the Wildcats who played for Kentucky before Brooks’ arrival, only Tyler and Cassidy Rowe remained following a disastrous 2023-24 season under Kyra Elzy. Rowe is expected to continue with the team.

The 5-foot-6 guard from Missouri was an ESPN four-star prospect and ranked the 22nd-best point guard in the 2022 class. She chose Kentucky over Arizona State and Tennessee.

In her first season with the Cats, she played only nine games for only six points, but the following season, she would take a more significant role for the team. In year two, she played 32 games and took 13 starts, averaging 10.2 ppg (second most on the team) and 1.8 rpg, with 19 assists and 21 steals.

Following Coach Brooks’ hire, she took on a unique role in teaching all her new teammates and coaches the ways of Kentucky. Tyler and Rowe were key players in integrating the team and program with Lexington’s culture.

“This year has been so unbelievably special, and it’s because of each and every one of you,” she said.

This season, she sat behind future first-round draft pick Georgia Amoore on the court and only played in 26 games. Her average dropped to 2.3 ppg and 1.3 rpg, with ten assists and nine steals. 

“Kentucky will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever be grateful and thankful for my time as a Wildcat. Thank you for Everything,” she concluded.