In a significant development for college basketball, Croatian forward Andrija Jelavić has announced his commitment to the University of Kentucky for the 2025–26 season. Standing 6’11” with a 7’2″ wingspan, Jelavić is poised to bring a unique blend of size, skill, and international experience to the Wildcats’ frontcourt.
🌍 A Rising Star from Europe
Jelavić has spent the past two seasons with KK Mega Superbet in the Adriatic League, where he averaged 10.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1 steal per game. Notably, he shot 50% from the field and made 24 three-pointers at a 32% clip, showcasing his versatility as a stretch forward.
His standout performance came during the 2023–24 playoffs, where he posted 13.8 points per game on an impressive 70.4% shooting from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc.
🏀 A Perfect Fit for Coach Pope’s System
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope expressed enthusiasm about Jelavić’s potential impact:
“Andrija is a really skilled, athletic, mobile, veteran player who has been playing at a high level for the last two years. He’s been mentored through the development program at Mega, which is one of the best development centers for great players in Europe. Andrija has a really unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill that will translate seamlessly into our system.”
Jelavić’s ability to handle the ball, shoot from distance, and defend multiple positions aligns well with the modern, fast-paced style that Coach Pope is implementing at Kentucky.
🔮 NBA Aspirations
With his combination of size, skill, and international experience, Jelavić is considered a potential NBA prospect. His decision to join Kentucky positions him to showcase his talents on a national stage, potentially enhancing his draft prospects for the 2026 NBA Draft.
🎉 Kentucky Fans React
The announcement of Jelavić’s commitment has generated excitement among Kentucky fans, with many expressing anticipation for the upcoming season. His addition to the roster is seen as a significant boost to the Wildcats’ frontcourt depth and overall team strength.
With Andrija Jelavić now part of the Kentucky Wildcats, the 2025–26 season promises to be an exciting one for both the team and its supporters. His international experience and versatile skill set are expected to make a substantial impact on the court.
