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Even without the John Calipari speculation, it would not have been a surprise to see 7-foot freshman Aaron Bradshaw put his name into the transfer portal after a season that was not nearly as good as he expected.
The McDonald’s All-American and one time projected top five pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Bradshaw averaged only 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. He blocked less than one shot per game and started only 10 of 26 games.
He had a few big moments but was not a consistent big-play producer for coach John Calipari.
Not only is Bradshaw putting his name into the transfer portal, but he will also enter the NBA draft to get evaluation from NBA personnel to see if it is worth considering staying in the draft.
Bradshaw posted this message on Instagram announcing his decisions and started by thanking UK fans:
“To the incredible Wildcats fans, my teammates, coaches, and supporters, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the unwavering support you have shown me throughout my time at the University of Kentucky. Representing the blue and white has genuinely been an absolute honor, and I am grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to put on a Kentucky jersey.
“Thank you to Coach Calipari, and the whole Kentucky staff for the support and guidance I have received throughout every step of my process. Your belief in me has fueled my drive and determination, and I am committed to making you proud, both on and off the court. Thank you to my teammates for battling alongside me and inspiring me to be my best.
“After much reflection and discussion with my family, coaches, and mentors, I have made the decision to enter the NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility and also entering the NCAA transfer portal. This has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I am eager to explore what the next chapter in my basketball journey holds while continuing to develop and grow each and every day. Thank you once again for your unwavering support.”
He will have three years of college eligibility remaining if he opts to stay in college.
Notice he did not make any mention about possibly returning to Kentucky.
4 Responses
Bradshaw was a bust to begin with, but Calipari had a lot to do with that. My guess is he will go to the G league on a minimum contract and try to prove himself there.
IMO he came in very overrated and when you layer no coaching or development on top of that you meet the definition of a Dud.
Calipari does not develop big men, and too many of today’s big men see themselves as guard in a lanky frame, and if they can’t heave it up from outside, they pout.
Bradshaw was in this category.
Hurley showed what dominant coaching looks like for a complete game on offense and defense. His guys executed about as good as a team could, and all the players contributed. It sounds like we do not have a chance here but have to make the call. There is Hurley and everyone else.