BREAKING: Maryland transfer G Ja’Kobi Gillespie has committed to Kentucky Men’s Basketball He averaged 14.7 points and 4.8 assists this season for the….
BREAKING: Maryland transfer G Ja’Kobi Gillespie has committed to Kentucky Men’s Basketball He averaged 14.7 points and 4.8 assists this season for the….
BREAKING: Maryland Transfer Ja’Kobi Gillespie Commits to Kentucky Men’s Basketball
In a major offseason development, former Maryland guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie has officially committed to the University of Kentucky, giving the Wildcats a significant boost to their backcourt ahead of the 2025-26 season. Gillespie, who entered the transfer portal earlier this spring, chose Kentucky over several high-profile programs vying for his talents.
Gillespie, a 6-foot-3 dynamic playmaker, had a breakout season with the Terrapins, averaging an impressive 14.7 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. Known for his explosive first step and ability to create scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates, Gillespie quickly became one of the most sought-after guards in the portal. His decision to join Kentucky signals head coach Mark Pope’s aggressive approach to reloading the roster and staying competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball.
“Ja’Kobi brings everything you want in a lead guard,” Pope said in a statement. “He’s fast, fearless, and knows how to control the game. His experience and leadership will be invaluable for us. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Big Blue Nation.”
Kentucky, coming off a season that fell short of its high expectations, has been active in the transfer market to build a roster capable of deep NCAA Tournament contention. Gillespie is expected to play a central role in the Wildcats’ rotation, bringing not only scoring punch but also veteran poise and playmaking ability to a backcourt that is also adding highly touted freshman recruits.
For Gillespie, the move to Lexington offers a fresh start on one of the biggest stages in college basketball. “I’m grateful for my time at Maryland and everything the program has given me,” Gillespie shared on social media. “But I’m excited for this next chapter. Playing at Kentucky, in front of the best fans in the country, is a dream come true. Let’s work.”
With Gillespie’s commitment, Kentucky continues to solidify itself as one of the premier destinations for top-tier talent, blending experience with youth to chase championship aspirations. As the Wildcats continue to shape their roster, fans can expect more moves in the coming weeks as the program eyes a return to national prominence.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Wildcats prepare for an
