First Look: Andrija Jelavić Suits Up in Kentucky Blue for the First Time

First Look: Andrija Jelavić Suits Up in Kentucky Blue for the First Time

📸: Chet White | UK Athletics | #BBN

For weeks, Kentucky fans have been buzzing about Croatian forward Andrija Jelavić and what he might bring to Mark Pope’s 2025-26 Wildcats. On Friday, Big Blue Nation finally got its first look at the 6-foot-11 talent donning a Kentucky jersey  and the reactions have been everything you’d expect from one of college basketball’s most passionate fanbases.

The image, released by UK Athletics photographer Chet White, instantly made the rounds across social media. Fans were quick to notice the sharp fit of the blue and white, and more importantly, how comfortable Jelavić looked in it. “This guy just looks like a Kentucky player,” one fan posted on X. “We’re ready.”

A European Pro Turned Wildcat

Jelavić is far from a typical freshman. At just 21 years old, he arrives in Lexington with two seasons of professional basketball already under his belt, playing in the Adriatic League where he averaged 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Unlike many young big men, Jelavić’s game stretches far beyond the paint  he hit 52 three-pointers last season, showing flashes of being a true pick-and-pop threat.

That versatility is exactly what Pope’s system thrives on. While Kentucky’s roster is loaded with athletic guards and rim-running bigs like Jayden Quaintance and Brandon Garrison, Jelavić brings a unique blend of size, shooting, and European polish that could carve him a major role this season.

The Missing Piece?

It’s no secret that Pope has emphasized skill and spacing since arriving in Lexington. Jelavić, with his 6-11 frame and shooting touch, might be the X-factor that allows Kentucky to fully unlock that vision. While Mouhamed Dioubate is projected to start at forward, there’s already buzz that Jelavić could push his way into the first five if he adjusts quickly to the speed and physicality of the SEC.

Pope himself hinted earlier this summer that the Croatian could be “a special piece for this team,” noting that his maturity and international experience might allow him to adapt faster than a typical newcomer.

Big Blue Nation’s New Obsession

For now, though, it’s just a photo. But in Lexington, that’s enough to spark endless speculation. The comments on the team’s official post ranged from “future fan favorite” to “already my favorite Wildcat.” Some even dared to compare his early vibe to former international standouts like Enes Kanter and Oscar Tshiebwe, players who left big marks on the program.

The hype will only grow as Kentucky gears up for its preseason exhibitions in late October. Fans will get their first real chance to see Jelavić in action on Oct. 24 when the Wildcats face BYU  fittingly, against another program known for embracing international talent.

Until then, the photo of Andrija Jelavić in Kentucky blue will keep circulating, a reminder of just how much anticipation surrounds this year’s team. For Big Blue Nation, every small glimpse counts, and this one feels like the beginning of something exciting.