Oklahoma State forward, formerly with Kentucky, announces return to Wildcats—giving Mark Pope’s frontcourt a major boost for next season.

In a major boost for Kentucky basketball, former Wildcat and recent Oklahoma State forward, Chris Livingston, has announced his return to Lexington for the 2025 season. The move marks a significant win for new head coach Mark Pope, who continues to reshape and strengthen the roster as he prepares for his first year at the helm.

Livingston, a 6-foot-6 forward known for his toughness, versatility, and rebounding ability, initially played for Kentucky during the 2022-23 season under then-head coach John Calipari. While his freshman year saw flashes of potential, he opted to explore professional opportunities and later transferred to Oklahoma State for the 2023-24 season. There, he matured both on and off the court, developing into a more complete player and raising his stock with improved scoring and defensive consistency.

Now, with a year of Big 12 experience under his belt and a renewed sense of confidence, Livingston is heading back to the Bluegrass. His return brings a valuable mix of experience, leadership, and familiarity with the program—qualities that will be essential as Kentucky enters a new era under Pope’s leadership.

For Pope, who took over after Calipari’s departure to Arkansas, the move is a strategic win. Known for his player development and energetic coaching style, Pope is building a roster that blends experience with upside. Adding a player like Livingston—who already understands the pressure and expectations that come with wearing Kentucky blue—offers a stabilizing force amid roster turnover and transition.

On the court, Livingston is expected to play a key role in the frontcourt rotation. His ability to defend multiple positions, crash the boards, and contribute offensively as a slasher and mid-range threat makes him a natural fit in Pope’s system, which emphasizes movement, spacing, and defensive grit. He’ll likely serve as a veteran presence alongside incoming recruits and other transfers, helping anchor the team with his physical style of play and high motor.

Fans are already excited about the return, viewing it as a homecoming of sorts. Livingston’s decision also reflects positively on the program’s culture and Pope’s ability to connect with players. In today’s transfer-heavy college basketball landscape, the willingness of a player to return to a former school speaks volumes about their belief in the vision being laid out.

Livingston’s return doesn’t just strengthen Kentucky’s lineup—it also signals momentum for the program as it re-establishes itself as a national contender. With more player movement likely to come in the offseason, Pope and the Wildcats appear to be building something special, and Livingston’s commitment could be a cornerstone for that foundation.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Lexington. Chris Livingston is back, and with him comes not just talent, but a renewed sense of purpose for Kentucky basketball.