“Stretch Four with Swagger Andrija Jelavic Reveals His Vision with Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats”
Kentucky’s newest international addition, Andrija Jelavic, is already talking like a Wildcat and Big Blue Nation is all ears.
In a recent interview, Jelavic gave fans a first look at the kind of impact he plans to have under Mark Pope’s 2025-26 Kentucky squad. The 6’9” forward, known for his European flair and modern versatility, shared what the coaching staff expects from him and how he plans to deliver.
“Their vision for me is what I already am,” Jelavic confidently stated.
“A big man (four man) that can stretch the floor with my shooting, dribble, scoring and playmaking, while also being a very good and versatile defender on the other side of the floor.”
In Pope’s fast-paced, modern offense, a player with Jelavic’s unique skill set fits like a glove. The Croatian-born forward has the size of a traditional big, but the mindset and game of a hybrid wing. He’s not just a shooter he’s a playmaker, a floor-spacer, and a high-IQ defender who sees the game two steps ahead.
Jelavic also emphasized that he can be lethal off the ball, a rare quality that will complement Kentucky’s star-studded backcourt and spread offense:
“I also think I can make the team better with my off ball movements and scoring that way.”
His ability to read defenses, cut at the right time, and keep the floor balanced is the kind of detail that wins games in March and potentially April.
While many fans are focused on the names already making headlines, Andrija Jelavic is quickly becoming a name to remember. In a class filled with talent, his combination of shooting, playmaking, and defensive versatility may be one of the biggest hidden weapons in Kentucky’s arsenal.
Mark Pope clearly sees the upside and now, Jelavic is ready to prove it on the court.
Big Blue Nation, meet your new stretch-four with swag. 🐾🇭🇷🏀
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