Mark Pope (Vicky Graff Photo)
Croatian Andrija Jelavic was one of the top international recruits and considered a likely impact maker this season when he decided in April to play at the University of Kentucky for coach Mark Pope.
However, it’s now July 22nd and the 6-foot-11, 21-year-old Jelavic still has not arrived in the United States. Pope, though, made it clear it’s no huge cause for concern and that he still expects Jelavic to be a major contributor for UK during the 2025-26 season.
“The status right now is that we got (class) transcripts,” Pope said. “He just finished classes, which is awesome. So we have transcripts, and so that part of this process is complete. And now it’s going through the rest of it. I’m hoping that he’d be on campus here — I don’t know if it’s optimistic … you know, I’d love for him to be here tomorrow.”
He has played the past two seasons for a Serbia-based professional team in the AdmiralBet ABA League. He averaged 11 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steals and 27.8 minutes per game. He also shot 32 percent from 3 and can play on the perimeter, a must in Pope’s offense.
Kentucky could not finalize paperwork for Jelavic’s eligibility until he finished his academic work. Pope apparently knew Jelavic would not be in Lexington any earlier and would not be able to participate in the eight weeks of summer practice. That’s why Pope and UK did not rush the eligibility process.
Jelavic will battle Brandon Garrison, Jayden Quaintance, Mo Dioubate, Malachi Moreno and Reece Potter for playing time when he does arrive.
Jelavic is considered a likely NBA prospect by many and Pope believes his experience and versatility will enable him to play a significant role for the Cats this season.
“I mean, he’s been playing against grown men, so he should bring a lot,” Pope said Monday. “And I think he’s a really good young man who’s been dreaming about this opportunity for a long time. I expect him to come in here and have an immediate impact.”
