European Standout Andrija Jelavic Commits to Kentucky, Shifting NCAA Recruiting Landscape.

Kentucky just landed a major international talent: 6-foot-11 Serbian power forward Andrija Jelavic, a rising star with a proven track record in one of Europe’s toughest leagues. The 20-year-old—who turns 21 next month—brings high-level experience to the Wildcats after logging 53 games over two seasons with Mega Superbet, based in Belgrade, Serbia, competing in the fiercely competitive Adriatic League.

Jelavic averaged 10.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in 30 minutes per game, shooting an efficient 62% on two-pointers. He also displayed solid range, connecting on 52 three-pointers across his time with Mega, showcasing the stretch-forward versatility modern teams covet. With a 7-foot-2 wingspan and elite mobility, Jelavic is expected to make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor in Lexington.

Kentucky’s recruiting momentum continues to build. The Wildcats have been aggressive in the transfer portal this offseason, adding Arizona State center Jayden Quaintance, Pitt guard Jaland Lowe, Alabama big man Mouhamed Dioubate, and Tulane forward Kam Williams. They’re also welcoming a pair of elite incoming freshmen: shooting guard Jasper Johnson and towering big man Malachi Moreno.

But Kentucky isn’t finished. Alongside Tennessee and Duke, the Wildcats are in the running for Nate Ament, a dynamic forward and top-five projected pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Jelavic’s commitment underscores a transformative shift in college basketball: the surge of international talent drawn by lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Once unlikely to leave Europe, top prospects are now exploring NCAA paths that offer exposure and million-dollar opportunities. Jelavic joins a growing list of European standouts headed to American programs, including 21-year-old German big man Sananda Fru (Louisville), 19-year-old Montenegrin David Mirkovic (Illinois), and 20-year-old German center Dominykas Pleta (Iowa State).

As the NIL era continues to redefine recruiting, programs like Kentucky are positioning themselves at the forefront of this new global game.

— IVP Sports