Jasper Johnson’s game is going global — and so is his Kentucky pride.
The five-star guard and future Wildcat was officially named to the final Team USA roster for the 2025 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup in Switzerland. Johnson, who committed to Kentucky with a message that read “KY Til I Die,” now carries that message onto the international stage.
He won’t be the only Kentucky connection on the roster. Tyran Stokes, a top 2026 recruit and major UK target, also made the final cut — a promising pairing for Kentucky fans eyeing the future of the program.
Team USA was drawn into Group D and will open play against Australia, France, and Cameroon. It’s a high-caliber group with major international pedigree — and a reminder that nothing is guaranteed. The Americans haven’t medaled since 2021, when they took gold. In 2023, they missed the podium entirely after falling to Turkey in the third-place game.
This summer’s squad hopes to reclaim that global dominance, and Johnson could play a key role. The 6-foot-4 scorer brings versatility, leadership, and toughness to the backcourt — all traits Kentucky fans hope will translate to Lexington in the near future. Johnson’s selection is further proof of his rise among the nation’s elite guards, and a sign that John Calipari’s player development machine might now be wearing Mark Pope’s uniform.
Kentucky basketball goes global
For Johnson, the journey is just beginning. But there’s no mistaking where his heart lies — Kentucky. Now, he’ll get the chance to wear red, white, and blue with “KY Til I Die” on the world stage in a big way.
The World Cup tips off later this month, and with Johnson and Stokes on board, Kentucky fans will have plenty to cheer for — even in Switzerland.