A viral clip posted by Coach Mark Pope has Kentucky fans buzzing about the explosive athleticism and court vision of Collin Chandler.
For Kentucky basketball fans looking for a sign of who might be this season's breakout star, Mark Pope just provided a major clue. In a short practice clip posted to social media, second-year guard Collin Chandler looks like a completely different player—one who is poised to become a major weapon for the Wildcats.
The footage, though brief, is electric. It showcases Chandler zipping precise, no-look passes to teammates for easy buckets and rising up for powerful, highlight-reel dunks that display elite athleticism. Yeah 2 Collin Chandler is going to be a problem.
It’s an exciting development for a player with a unique backstory. Chandler, a former top-35 national recruit, spent two years away from the game on a Mormon mission before enrolling at Kentucky last season. His freshman year was a period of re-acclimation, shaking off the rust and getting back into game shape. While he showed flashes, particularly late in the season, he was still rounding back into the form that made him the No. 6 ranked combo guard in his class.
In his last 11 games of the 2024-25 season, Chandler began to find his rhythm, culminating in a nine-point performance in the NCAA Tournament first round. He was clearly gaining confidence with every minute on the floor.
Andrija Jelavic just posted a comment on Instagram after the video of him getting dunked on by Collin Chandler went viral:
— Chris Beasmore (@CBeasmoreSports) September 7, 2025
"Welcome to SEC moment."
It’s safe to say that Jelavic will be posterizing others soon! #BBN pic.twitter.com/sdSzk2Qbcg
Now, this new footage suggests he has made a significant leap. He’s no longer just shaking off the rust; he’s playing with the swagger and explosiveness of a star. His combination of court vision and athletic finishing makes him a perfect fit for the fast-paced, free-flowing offense Pope wants to run.
With the incredible depth on this year's roster, Kentucky will be able to play an aggressive, up-tempo style that wears opponents down. A confident and explosive Collin Chandler won't just be a part of that attack—he could be the one leading it. BBN, get ready for a problem.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premier League soccer. Micah 7:7. #UpTheAlbion