European Standout Andrija Jelavic Officially Signs with Kentucky Wildcats
In a significant boost to their roster, the University of Kentucky has officially landed the commitment of European prospect Andrija Jelavic. The highly touted forward, known for his athleticism, versatility, and international experience, will join the Wildcats for the upcoming season under head coach Mark Pope.
Jelavic’s arrival is a major addition for Kentucky as the program looks to reassert itself as a powerhouse in college basketball. Standing at 6’9”, with the mobility and skill set to play multiple positions, Jelavic is widely recognized for his development through the famed Mega Basket system—one of Europe’s most respected basketball academies, based in Serbia. Mega has produced several NBA-caliber players in recent years, and Jelavic appears poised to follow in their footsteps.
Coach Pope was enthusiastic when speaking about Jelavic’s signing, expressing confidence in his potential impact. “Andrija is a really skilled, athletic, mobile veteran player who has been playing at a high level for the last two years,” Pope said. “He’s been mentored through the development program at Mega, which is one of the best development centers in Europe. Andrija has a really unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill that would translate seamlessly into our system.”
Pope also highlighted Jelavic’s emotional connection to Kentucky and his eagerness to contribute to the storied program. “When we did our Zoom, you could see the emotion on his face of how much Kentucky means to him and that he cannot wait to wear a Kentucky jersey,” Pope added.
Jelavic brings more than just physical tools to the Wildcats. His experience playing against seasoned competition in European leagues gives him a maturity and understanding of the game that is rare for incoming college freshmen. His time at Mega Basket has honed his basketball IQ and exposed him to professional-level training and game situations, allowing him to develop into a polished player ready to contribute from day one.
Known for his high motor and work ethic, Jelavic has impressed scouts with his ability to stretch the floor, make smart decisions with the ball, and defend multiple positions. His size allows him to match up with traditional big men, but his agility and perimeter shooting also enable him to thrive in a modern, up-tempo system. With Kentucky expected to lean on versatility and pace under Coach Pope, Jelavic fits naturally into the scheme.
For the Wildcats, this signing is also a signal of their growing global recruiting reach under the new coaching staff. Pope, who took over the program in 2024, has emphasized building a team with diverse backgrounds and skill sets that can compete both in the SEC and on the national stage. Jelavic’s commitment reinforces Kentucky’s reputation as an international destination for top-tier basketball talent.
Fans of Big Blue Nation will soon get their first look at Jelavic when the Wildcats begin preseason practices this summer. Expectations are high, but those close to the program believe Jelavic has the mindset and the foundation to meet them head-on. His journey from European courts to the historic hardwood of Rupp Arena is already generating excitement across the Kentucky fanbase.
As the team prepares for the 2025–26 season, all eyes will be on the Serbian standout. With his rare blend of skill and size, and his genuine passion for wearing the blue and white, Andrija Jelavic could be one of the most impactful international players in recent Kentucky history.
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