Collin Chandler to Join Pope, Kentucky After Calipari Exit, Decommit from BYU
Mark Pope has made his first major hire since replacing John Calipari as Kentucky’s head coach.
Collin Chandler informed Travis Branham of 247Sports that he will attend the Wildcats after being released from his national sign of intent with BYU:
“I am grateful to Cougar Nation for welcoming me as family from the start and for their support throughout a difficult period in my life. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to interact with such a dedicated and caring fan group. I am very grateful to Coach Pope for his mentorship and belief in me from the beginning.
“The journey of pursuing aspirations is amazing. Chasing my dreams and aspirations in basketball has always offered me great joy and fulfillment. The game means everything to me.
“I am grateful to Cougar Nation for welcoming me as family from the start and for their support throughout a difficult period in my life. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to interact with such a dedicated and caring fan group. I am very grateful to Coach Pope for his mentorship and belief in me from the beginning.
“This trip has already brought me to places I never would have imagined. Growing up, my ultimate desire was to compete against the world’s best players. I am extremely glad for the opportunity to do just that. The road I had previously envisioned has become clouded during the last few days. After many conversations with my family and prayers, this vision has become clearer than before. I am humbled to have the opportunity to continue this adventure at the University of Kentucky! “Go, Wildcats!”
Chandler was the No. 37 overall recruit in the 2022 class, according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. He signed a national letter of interest with BYU in November 2021, however he postponed starting his college career to serve as
According to Robby McCombs of Vanquish the Foe, Chandler is anticipated to return from his mission on May 2.
Chandler was the highest-ranked recruit to commit with BYU since Pope took over as head coach in April 2019.
On April 12, Pope departed BYU to take the same position at Kentucky. He was hired to replace John Calipari, who relocated to Arkansas. The Wildcats’ roster has been dismantled in the aftermath of Calipari’s departure.
D.J. Wagner joined the transfer portal on Monday. Zvonimir Ivišić stated on Monday that he is leaving Kentucky to join Calipari with the Razorback.S. Aaron Bradshaw committed to Ohio State after entering the transfer portal.l.
When Chandler played in high school, Brandon Jenkins of 247Sports described him as a “competitive guard who always plays in attack mode” and “a great shooter off the catch or dribble who knocks down the three-point shot with consistency.”
Chandler is the third commit to Kentucky’s 2024 recruiting class. He joins guards Travis Perry and Billy Richmond on the Wildcats’ roster for next season.
