Kentucky’s Hidden Gem from Croatia Has Mark Pope Excited for a Reason

Andrija Jelavić: Kentucky’s Hidden Gem from Croatia Has Mark Pope Excited for a Reason

In the sea of offseason moves, five-star recruits, and big-name transfers, sometimes the most valuable additions fly under the radar—until they don’t. That might just be the case for Kentucky’s international newcomer, Andrija Jelavić, a 6-foot-11 stretch forward from Croatia whose passion for the game has already made a big impression on head coach Mark Pope.

And Pope isn’t one to toss around praise lightly. When he says a player has the chance to be “really special,” it’s time to take notice.

“He Wants to Hoop All the Time”

Pope lit up when discussing Jelavić during a recent offseason media appearance. But it wasn’t just about size or stats it was about heart.
“He loves the game of basketball. He wants to hoop all the time,” Pope said. “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.”

In a world where basketball can sometimes feel like a job, Jelavić treats it like a calling. And that’s something Pope a former Wildcat and longtime student of the game doesn’t take for granted.

It’s not just effort; it’s love. Pope described their first FaceTime call as “beautiful,” a conversation that left him not only impressed by Jelavić’s maturity, but deeply moved by his humility and hunger.
“Like all of us, the opportunity to be associated with Kentucky basketball is a little bit beyond his wildest dreams,” Pope explained. “He was pretty emotional about the whole process.”

From Europe’s Hardwood to Big Blue Nation

Jelavić comes to Lexington with real professional experience. Playing for Mega Superbet, a Serbian-based program known for developing NBA-level talent, he averaged 10.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and a steal per game. He shot nearly 50% from the floor and has a developing three-point shot that adds valuable floor spacing.

That’s not just production it’s projection. A 7-foot-2 wingspan and the ability to stretch the floor? That’s the kind of versatility Pope loves, and it’s exactly what Kentucky needs in today’s positionless game.

“He’s a guy who just fits into our system he’s long, skilled, plays with energy, and he wants to be great,” Pope said. “He reminds me of guys we’ve had success with in the past. It’s not a matter of if, but when.”

One Final Step: Eligibility

As with most international players, the NCAA eligibility process is the final hurdle before Jelavić can fully join the program. But Pope was quick to calm any fears that a Zvonimir Ivisic-style saga could unfold again.

“He’s been incredibly cooperative,” Pope emphasized. “Everyone involved is pushing this through as fast as possible.”

While Jelavić is expected to arrive a bit later in the summer due to his ongoing playoff commitments overseas, Pope is confident the wait will be well worth it.

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

The Bigger Picture

In many ways, Jelavić is the type of player that defines Pope’s vision for Kentucky: tough, skilled, and obsessed with improvement. He may not have come through the typical high school recruiting pipeline, but his path from European professional ball to Rupp Arena is no less promising.

More importantly, he wants this. He understands the gravity of wearing Kentucky blue. He knows the history, the pressure, and the expectations and he’s ready for all of it.

For a program reloading and redefining under Mark Pope’s leadership, Jelavić represents the future: international flair, relentless work ethic, and an underdog’s mindset.

So don’t be surprised when the name Andrija Jelavić becomes a fan favorite in Lexington.

Because according to the man leading the charge, this overseas gem has everything it takes to shine in the Bluegrass.