BREAKING: Maryland Transfer Ja’Kobi Gillespie Commits to Kentucky After Standout Season
*Gillespie Brings 14.7 PPG and 4.8 APG to Wildcats’ Backcourt*
The Kentucky Wildcats have landed a major addition to their backcourt as former Maryland point guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie has officially announced his commitment to the program. The 6-foot-1 sophomore transfer brings with him a highly productive season and a reputation as one of the most dynamic guards in college basketball.
Gillespie, who averaged 14.7 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game in the 2024-25 season, will now take his talents to Lexington. Known for his quick first step, high basketball IQ, and defensive tenacity, Gillespie is expected to play a key role in Kentucky’s lineup under head coach Mark Pope.
A Breakout Year at Maryland
Gillespie was a breakout star for the Terrapins last season, often carrying the team on both ends of the floor. His offensive numbers were balanced with strong shooting percentages — 46.4% from the field and 40.8% from beyond the arc. Gillespie also proved himself in big games, showing poise under pressure and a flair for the dramatic.
He posted several standout performances, including a 27-point explosion against UCLA, a 23-point effort against Ohio State, and a double-double (17 points, 11 assists) versus Syracuse. His ability to create shots for himself and others consistently made him a focal point in Maryland’s offensive schemes.
His season was capped by being named to the All-Big Ten Third Team, and he was placed on the Oscar Robertson Trophy midseason watchlist — a testament to his standing among the nation’s elite guards.
Why Kentucky?
Gillespie’s decision to transfer was influenced in part by the sudden departure of Maryland head coach Kevin Willard, who took the head coaching job at Villanova. While initially noncommittal about his future, Gillespie eventually entered the transfer portal with the goal of finding a stable, competitive environment — and Kentucky checked all the boxes.
Kentucky’s long-standing reputation for developing NBA-ready guards, along with the opportunity to play on a national stage, made the decision clear for Gillespie. “Kentucky felt like the right place for me to grow as a player and compete for championships,” he said in a statement. “I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Instant Impact
For Kentucky, Gillespie provides an immediate boost to a roster that has undergone significant change following the departure of head coach John Calipari. With several players heading to the NBA and others entering the portal, Gillespie brings experience, leadership, and production at the point guard spot.
New head coach Mark Pope, known for his up-tempo style and guard-friendly system, is expected to give Gillespie the freedom to lead the offense. Pope spoke highly of Gillespie after the commitment: “He’s a fierce competitor and a true floor general. Ja’Kobi is the type of player that makes everyone around him better, and we’re thrilled to have him.”
Looking Ahead
With Gillespie now officially a Wildcat, Kentucky’s roster is beginning to take shape for the 2025-26 season. The addition of a proven leader like Gillespie signals that Kentucky is not looking to rebuild — they’re reloading.
The SEC will be as competitive as ever, but with Gillespie at the helm, Kentucky fans have good reason to be excited about what lies ahead. If his Maryland campaign was any indication, Gillespie is ready to shine on one of college basketball’s biggest stages.
