Brandon Garrison is Coming Back to Kentucky Next Season
Lexington, KY – April 12, 2025
Big Blue Nation, rejoice—Brandon Garrison is coming back to Kentucky next season, and his return could be one of the most important decisions of the Wildcats’ offseason. The 6-foot-9 forward, known for his relentless hustle, defensive presence, and evolving offensive skill set, made it official on Saturday: he’s staying in Lexington for his junior year.
After weeks of speculation about whether he might test NBA Draft waters or explore other professional options, Garrison ended the suspense with a heartfelt announcement that instantly energized the Kentucky fanbase.
> “I’ve grown so much this past year—not just as a basketball player, but as a person,” Garrison said. “Kentucky has become my home, and I’m not ready to leave yet. I believe in this team, in this coaching staff, and in what we’re building together. I’m coming back to finish what we started.”
From Oklahoma Roots to Wildcat Pride
Brandon Garrison’s basketball journey began in Oklahoma City, where he starred at Del City High School. A dominant force in the paint, Garrison averaged 15.7 points, 10 rebounds, and nearly 3 assists per game in his senior season. His leadership and production helped Del City capture a state championship, and his high school career was capped with a selection to the 2023 McDonald’s All-American Game, cementing his status as one of the top prospects in the country.
He was also named Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year, an honor that reflected both his on-court brilliance and off-court character.
Garrison chose to begin his college career at Oklahoma State, where he quickly made an impression during the 2023–24 season. He started 29 of 32 games for the Cowboys and averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks. Despite his solid freshman campaign, Garrison entered the transfer portal in search of a new challenge and a bigger stage.
That search led him to Lexington.
A Season of Growth at Kentucky
Brandon Garrison’s sophomore season at Kentucky was one of transition and growth. Though he came off the bench for much of the year, his role steadily expanded. He appeared in all 35 games, averaging 5.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, while also becoming one of the team’s most reliable defenders.
But perhaps the biggest sign of his growth was on the offensive end. Garrison, once considered a traditional low-post player, began working on his range—even attempting and making three-pointers after not taking a single one as a freshman. That willingness to evolve his game shows his commitment to developing into a modern, positionless big man.
“Brandon’s progression this season has been incredible,” head coach Mark Pope said. “He’s become more versatile, more vocal, and more confident. And we’re only scratching the surface of what he can be. Having him back for another year is huge—for our system and for our culture.”
The Importance of His Return
In an era where many players leave early for the NBA or transfer programs each year, Garrison’s decision to return speaks volumes. It signals a belief in the direction of the program and a willingness to buy into long-term development.
And make no mistake—his return isn’t just sentimental. It’s strategic. Kentucky is bringing in a strong recruiting class and has already added Croatian forward Andrija Jelavic, a 6-foot-10 sharpshooter with European experience. Garrison’s experience, toughness, and adaptability make him a perfect complement to the younger, flashier pieces arriving this summer.
He’s expected to be a leader—not just by example, but vocally in the locker room. With the loss of several seniors and transfers, Garrison’s return provides stability and a foundation around which Pope can build.
“He knows what it means to wear that Kentucky jersey,” assistant coach TJ Beisner said. “And now he’s ready to lead the next group of Wildcats. That’s special.”
What’s Ahead for Garrison
With two years of college experience under his belt, Garrison will enter the 2025–26 season as a veteran presence. He’ll likely start at the power forward or center spot, depending on matchups, and his expanded skill set should allow Kentucky to play with more flexibility on both ends.
He’ll be tasked with anchoring the defense, boxing out, switching onto wings, and cleaning the glass—all roles he’s already proven he can handle. But now, the spotlight will also shine on his offensive game: can he score more consistently? Can he become a threat from mid-range and beyond the arc? Can he become a go-to player when Kentucky needs a bucket late?
If he can check even some of those boxes, he won’t just be one of Kentucky’s most important players—he’ll be one of the top big men in the SEC.
NBA scouts will be watching, too. His size, strength, and versatility already make him intriguing, but another strong season at Kentucky could boost him into serious draft conversations.
One More Year. One More Mission.
The Wildcats are aiming high next season, and Brandon Garrison’s return gives them a serious advantage. His toughness, heart, and growing game embody what Kentucky basketball has always prided itself on.
One year ago, he arrived in Lexington looking to grow. Now, he returns not just as a better player, but as a leader ready to carry the program forward.
Brandon Garrison is coming back to Kentucky next season, and with him comes experience, fire, and unfinished business. The mission is clear: raise banners, win big, and show the college basketball world what this team—and this returning Wildcat—is truly capable of.
