He Wants to Hoop All the Time” Kentucky’s Overseas Gem Could Be Special

Mark Pope on Andrija Jelavić: “He Wants to Hoop All the Time” Kentucky’s Overseas Gem Could Be Special

Mark Pope isn’t one for overhyping players. So when he says a new Wildcat “has a chance to be really special,” Big Blue Nation listens.

That’s exactly how Pope described Andrija Jelavić, Kentucky’s 6-foot-11 international addition from Croatia. A stretch forward with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Jelavić might be unknown to most fans for now but not to his new head coach, who’s already seen enough to be sold on the 21-year-old’s potential.

“He loves the game of basketball. He wants to hoop all the time,” Pope said in his recent offseason presser. “He’s been in an environment where he’s doing two practices a day, every day for his entire life. That’s the background he’s coming from.”

It didn’t take long for Pope to feel a connection. He described their first FaceTime conversation as “beautiful,” a moment that showed him this kid wasn’t just about talent he was about passion and purpose.

From Pro Ball to the Bluegrass

Jelavić has been competing professionally for Mega Superbet, averaging 10.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and a steal per game. He’s efficient around the rim, shoots nearly 50% from the floor, and adds floor spacing with his developing three-point shot.

Despite being across the globe, Jelavić is no stranger to what it means to wear Kentucky blue. Pope shared that the Croatian prospect grew emotional as their conversations got more serious.

“Like all of us, the opportunity to be associated with Kentucky basketball is a little bit beyond his wildest dreams,” Pope said. “He was pretty emotional about the whole process.”

One Hurdle Remains: NCAA Eligibility

Before Jelavić can officially suit up, he’ll need to clear the NCAA’s eligibility process for international players. But Pope remains confident: “He’s been incredibly cooperative. Everyone involved is pushing this through as fast as possible.”

It’s a far cry from the chaotic saga that surrounded former Kentucky center Zvonimir Ivisic last season. And Pope doesn’t anticipate any similar drama this time around.

What’s Next?

Jelavić is still competing in the playoffs overseas, and could be playing through mid-June if his team advances. Once his season concludes, the process of moving to Lexington and beginning summer workouts will start. It’s a late arrival, sure but if you ask Pope, it’ll be worth the wait.

“I have every reason to believe that he’s going to be just as successful here as all of our guys are,” Pope said. “I think he’s got a chance to be really special.”

The verdict? Kentucky may have found a diamond in Europe. And if Jelavić brings even half the fire Pope sees in him, BBN is in for a treat.