One of the biggest surprises of the offseason for the Kentucky Wildcats has been the commitment of Croatian forward Andrija Jelavic.
The 6’11 big man announced his commitment to Kentucky this past weekend and figures to be a key piece for Kentucky next season as a 21-year-old freshman.
Jelavic has also garnered the attention of international scouts as one of the top international players on their way to playing college basketball in the U.S. this season.
Top international players committed to play CBB next year so far
Hannes Steinbach – Washington
Andrija Jelavic – Kentucky
Stefan Vaaks – Providence
David Mirkovic – Illinois
Sanada Fru – Louisville
Omer Mayer – Purdue
Thomas Bassong* – Florida St— nbadraftpoint (@nbadraftpoint) April 16, 2025
Jelavic could be a key piece in the front court as an athletic stretch four with good touch around the rim and has the ability to put the ball on the floor and score at all three levels.
While he didn’t have block numbers that really pop on the stat sheet, he has a 7’2 wingspan and the athleticism to be a good defender.
With NIL in college athletics, we’re starting to see more and more international players make the leap to the U.S. to play college basketball. It seems like Mark Pope and the Kentucky staff are leaving no stone unturned to search across the globe for high-level talent, and you have to think if Jelavic succeeds at Kentucky, that pipeline for high-level international talent will only grow.
Tweet of the Day
I’m really excited to watch Andrija Jelavic in Kentucky’s offense. He is a really good, smart cutter which should really flourish with the ‘Cats.
Watch him here as he immediately cuts as his man rotates to a closeout.
High IQ player with great instincts. pic.twitter.com/tDhx8rMluL
— Brandon Ramsey (@BRamseyKSR) April 16, 2025
Really like what he brings to the table.
Headlines
What did we learn from UK Football during spring practice? – Courier Journal
Jason Patterson has been one of the top attention-grabbers.
Kentucky reportedly contacted Jamir Watkins – Cats Pause
Could he be the final piece to the roster?
Maxwell Hairston invited to NFL Draft – KSR
The former UK DB could hear his name called early.
UK freshman golfer impresses at SEC championship – UK Athletics
A strong performance by the freshman.
Which SEC schools are making moves in the portal? – Herald Leader
Teams around the SEC are looking to reload in the portal.
Nico reportedly headed to UCLA – Yahoo
The former Tennessee QB is headed west.
Former Heisman winner named Florida A&M basketball coach – ESPN
Charlie Ward has a diverse resume.
Travel agent pleads guilty to fraud related to George Mason Basketball trip – Bleacher Report
This is a wild story.
MLB umpire fine after being struck in head by foul ball – CBS Sports
A scary moment initially but seems like he’s OK.
Dumars hired in New Orleans ; could Zion be traded? – NBC Sports
It seems like that’s where things could be trending.
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