In a move that is sending shockwaves through college basketball, standout guard Jaland Lowe has officially withdrawn his name from the 2025 NBA Draft and announced he will suit up for the Kentucky Wildcats next season. The rising sophomore cited βunfinished businessβ and the allure of playing under head coach Mark Pope as major factors in his decision.
βI canβt miss out on this opportunity,β Lowe said in a statement released Sunday. βCoach Popeβs vision for the program, the energy in Lexington, and the chance to develop even further with a national spotlightβthis just feels right.β
Lowe, a dynamic 6’2″ guard, averaged 10.2 points and 4.1 assists last season at Memphis, showcasing elite speed, court vision, and a growing perimeter shot. He entered the draft process to evaluate his NBA readiness but ultimately chose to return to the college ranks after feedback suggested he could benefit from another year of development.
His decision to transfer to Kentucky adds immediate firepower to a backcourt already buzzing with talent. Under Pope, the Wildcats are expected to play an up-tempo, guard-friendly systemβperfect for Loweβs style of play.
βJaland brings the kind of edge and leadership we need,β Pope said. βHe’s hungry to win, and he’s ready to take the next step right here in Lexington.β
Fans are already celebrating the announcement as a major recruiting coup, and with Loweβs addition, expectations for the 2025β26 season are quickly rising. Kentucky, coming off a transitional year with Pope at the helm, suddenly looks like a serious contender once again.
Loweβs return to college basketball is more than a personal decisionβit could be a game-changer for the Wildcats.
