Kentucky basketball and Mark Pope are dipping into the international recruiting game as the Wildcats picked up a commitment from Andrija Jelavić, one of Europe’s top prospects in the 2025 recruiting cycle. The 6-foot-11 power forward brings size, skill, and professional experience to a frontcourt in need of reinforcements.
Jelavić, who turns 21 next month, has already logged 53 games of pro-level experience overseas, averaging 10 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal in 30 minutes per game. His numbers are solid, but it's his upside and versatility that have scouts and fans intrigued.
In a 2023 interview, Jelavić showed impressive self-awareness and a commitment to growth:
“I definitely think I have a lot of room for improvement in many aspects of the game, both technically (dribbling, post moves) and physically. I need to work a lot on my body. Even with good averages, I always need to work on my shot because I believe that’s what sets me apart from other big players.”
That humility and drive, paired with his natural tools, make him a fascinating addition to Mark Pope’s 2025 roster.
A stretch four with two-way potential
Jelavić’s game fits the modern mold of a stretch four — a big who can space the floor, handle the ball in transition, and provide switchable defense. While NBA Scouting Live has listed him as a potential second-round pick in this year’s NBA Draft, the same report points to areas he needs to polish, including shooting efficiency and consistency on the defensive end. They also say he is a good rebounder, above average athlete, and an excellent off ball scorer.
Still, the experience he’s gained playing against grown men in a competitive European league gives him a leg up in maturity and basketball IQ. At 6'11 with fluid movement and a developing outside shot, he provides Kentucky with a frontcourt weapon Pope has been targeting — someone who can defend multiple positions while contributing offensively.
Filling a position of need
Kentucky needed to reload its frontcourt after the departures of Amari Williams, Ansley Almonor, and Andrew Carr. Jelavić gives Pope a valuable replacement option and adds to a rotation that now includes returning big man Brandon Garrison, freshman Malachi Moreno, Alabama transfer Mouhamed Dioubate, and the versatile Trent Noah.
With his addition, the Wildcats gain a player capable of eating up minutes at the four or even small-ball five if needed, which could be crucial in navigating a deep SEC slate. The frontcourt no longer looks thin — it looks well-rounded.
Long-term development, short-term impact
Though raw in some areas, Jelavić has the tools to contribute early. His length(7'2 wingspan), rebounding instincts, and positional awareness should help him carve out a role right away. And under Pope’s player development system — which emphasizes skill-building and positional versatility — he’ll have every chance to sharpen his shot and tighten his defensive discipline.
This is a forward-looking pickup with the potential to pay off immediately. He’s not just a stash for the future — Jelavić has the kind of two-way talent and motor to impact games this season.