Lance Ware, the talented forward who spent three years with the Kentucky Wildcats, is set to embark on a new chapter in the Big East conference. Exciting reports surfaced on Saturday afternoon, with On3’s Joe Tipton revealing that Ware has made the decision to join Villanova under the guidance of their newly appointed head coach, Kyle Neptune.
Ware’s choice to transfer to Villanova comes after exploring potential options at St. John’s and Providence. While his entrance into the transfer portal caught some by surprise, it was driven by the uncertainty surrounding the Wildcats’ frontcourt for the upcoming season. Ware, seeking more playing time, opted to leave behind his role as a bench-leader and seek fresh opportunities elsewhere.
Reflecting on his time at Kentucky, the Camden, N.J. native expressed gratitude and growth. He acknowledged the challenges faced, including navigating the impacts of COVID-19 and the tragic loss of his brother, Terrence Clarke. Nevertheless, he fondly recalled the unwavering support of Big Blue Nation, the electrifying atmosphere of Rupp Arena, and the numerous impactful charity endeavors.
During his tenure at Kentucky, Ware featured in 77 games, earning nine starts. While his statistical contributions averaged at 1.8 points and 2.2 rebounds per game, his true value extended beyond the box score. Ware was widely recognized as an exceptional leader and a cherished teammate, earning him the honor of team captain during the Wildcats’ run in the NCAA Tournament last season.
Reflecting on Ware’s growth, Kentucky head coach John Calipari expressed his admiration, emphasizing his improvement each year. Calipari lauded Ware’s exceptional leadership qualities and highlighted his status as one of the best teammates he has ever coached. The head coach also extended an open invitation for Ware’s return if he does not find the desired opportunity at Villanova, playfully mentioning that Ware is his wife Ellen’s favorite player and expressing reluctance to deliver the news to her.
Now, Ware will embark on a new journey closer to his hometown, joining the heralded Villanova basketball program. As he transitions to the new era under Coach Neptune’s guidance, Ware’s experiences at Kentucky and his growth as a player and person will undoubtedly contribute to his future success. The Villanova faithful eagerly await his arrival, hoping to witness his impact on the court as he continues to carve out his basketball legacy.
