Cincinnati Open hosts Kentucky basketball
After months of waiting, Big Blue Nation finally got the news it had been anticipating: Andrija Jelavić has officially arrived in the United States. The 7-footer from Croatia, who committed to Kentucky nearly four months ago, was spotted with head coach Mark Pope at the Cincinnati Open — his first public appearance stateside.
For Kentucky fans, this sighting felt like confirmation that a key piece of the future frontcourt is in place. Jelavić’s arrival comes later than expected, which meant he missed valuable time in summer workouts. While he won’t have the same immediate familiarity with teammates that comes from participating in summer camp, being on campus for the fall ensures he’ll be immersed in the system when it matters most.
The Cincinnati Open provided a fitting backdrop. Founded in 1899, it stands as the longest-running professional tennis tournament still held in its original city. Now a marquee ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 event, the tournament annually draws over 200,000 fans and reaches more than 126 million viewers worldwide. It’s a place where international excellence is celebrated — an atmosphere Jelavić himself hopes to replicate when he finally takes the floor in Lexington.
Since 1974, the event has also given back over $12 million to local beneficiaries, further cementing its reputation as more than just a tennis tournament. The champions list is a who’s who of legends, with over 100 International Tennis Hall of Famers competing there. Jelavić being introduced in that type of environment seemed symbolic: Kentucky is betting he belongs in those kinds of conversations, a talent worthy of elite stages.
The reality, however, is he will face a steeper learning curve. Missing summer means missing reps, and college basketball moves fast. He’ll need to get stronger, adjust to the speed of the game, and carve out his role against a roster already building chemistry all in a new country. Still, his size, touch, and upside make him a high-value addition.
Now that he’s in the gym with his teammates, the next phase begins. For Kentucky fans, it’s a relief — Jelavić is here, and his journey in blue and white is officially underway.