Jaxon Kohler, the former Michigan State forward who was a top target for Kentucky basketball in the transfer portal, is officially off the board. He’s heading to the BYU Cougars instead, per On3, a tough break for Mark Pope and the Wildcats who were trying to fill their final roster spot.
Kohler Chooses Closer to Home
Pope really hoped to sway Kohler to Lexington. The big man spent four years at Michigan State, got a fifth season thanks to judge’s rulings, and then entered the portal. But BYU was always the favorite to land him since he was allowed to enter. Kohler, a Utah native, definitely fits with what they do on offense there, and he decided to head closer to home. You can’t blame a guy for that, even if it stings for Kentucky.
Mitchell’s Fate Rests on Tomorrow’s Ruling
So, with Kohler off the table, Pope is already swinging his attention to Mark Mitchell, the former LSU Tigers forward. Here’s the kicker: Mitchell is waiting on a Louisville judge’s clarification on his own situation tomorrow. If he wins his case, the Wildcats are expected to be one of the favorites to land him. Talk about a quick pivot!
Yeah, losing Kohler feels like another recruiting loss for Pope, and honestly, it is. However, it wasn’t a total shock. If Kentucky can snag Mitchell, then this whole transfer saga could still work out just fine. Tomorrow’s ruling is everything for the Wildcats’ roster.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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