ZaKiyah Johnson and Malachi Moreno Named Kentucky’s 2025 Miss and Mr. Basketball
In a celebration of Kentucky high school basketball excellence, Sacred Heart Academy’s ZaKiyah Johnson and Great Crossing High School’s Malachi Moreno have been honored as the 2025 Kentucky Miss and Mr. Basketball, respectively. Their recognition is the culmination of years of dedication, talent, and hard work, marking them as the state’s top high school basketball players.
A Historic Achievement for Johnson
ZaKiyah Johnson, a 6-foot-1 senior guard, has been a dominant force in Kentucky high school basketball. Leading Sacred Heart Academy to an unprecedented four consecutive state championships, she has solidified her place as one of the most decorated players in program history. Her leadership, versatility, and scoring ability have made her a standout player throughout her high school career.
Johnson, who has committed to playing collegiate basketball at Louisiana State University (LSU), expressed her gratitude for receiving the prestigious award.
“This means everything to me,” Johnson said. “Winning four state titles was already special, but being named Miss Basketball is like the sprinkles on top of the cake. It’s a moment I will never forget.”
As one of the top-ranked recruits in the nation, Johnson’s transition to LSU is highly anticipated. With her skill set and work ethic, she is expected to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.
Moreno’s Path to Mr. Basketball and UK
On the boys’ side, Malachi Moreno, a towering 7-foot center from Great Crossing High School, has been named Kentucky’s Mr. Basketball. Moreno’s dominance in the paint, combined with his defensive prowess and rebounding ability, has set him apart as one of the premier big men in the country.
A University of Kentucky signee, Moreno has been a focal point of Great Crossing’s success, helping the program become a powerhouse in the state. His shot-blocking ability and presence inside have been key factors in his team’s deep postseason runs.
“This is an incredible honor,” Moreno said. “Winning Mr. Basketball is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid. I’m proud to represent my school, my teammates, and my family with this award.”
Moreno will soon take his talents to Lexington, where he will play under head coach Mark Pope at Kentucky. His arrival adds depth to the Wildcats’ frontcourt, and fans are eager to see how his game translates to the next level.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Kentucky Mr. and Miss Basketball awards are among the most prestigious honors in high school sports, recognizing players for their contributions on and off the court. Past winners include NBA and WNBA stars, making the award a significant milestone in the careers of Johnson and Moreno.
With their high school careers coming to a close, both players are now focused on their next challenges. Johnson will look to shine in the SEC with LSU, while Moreno aims to make a name for himself in the storied Kentucky basketball program.
As they prepare for the next stage, one thing is certain: ZaKiyah Johnson and Malachi Moreno have left an indelible mark on Kentucky high school basketball. Their names will be remembered alongside the greats who have come before them, and their futures in the sport are just beginning.
