Brandon Garrison, a forward for the Kentucky Wildcats, is back for his junior season.

Brandon Garrison, a Forward for the Kentucky Wildcats, Is Back for His Junior Season

In an era where college basketball rosters experience constant turnover, the Kentucky Wildcats just received a boost of continuity. Junior forward Brandon Garrison has officially announced he will return for his third season in Lexington, providing head coach Mark Pope with a vital piece as the Wildcats enter a new era.

Garrison’s return comes at a crucial time for Kentucky, which is undergoing a significant transition following the departure of longtime head coach John Calipari. As the program adjusts to new leadership and system changes, having a veteran presence like Garrison’s in the locker room and on the court offers stability and leadership that’s difficult to replace.

A Steady Force in the Frontcourt

Brandon Garrison, a 6-foot-9, 230-pound forward from Oklahoma City, made an impact in his first two seasons at Kentucky. Known for his physicality, rebounding tenacity, and basketball IQ, Garrison averaged 9.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game during his sophomore campaign while shooting 54% from the field.

His role expanded significantly in 2024 as injuries and transfers forced Kentucky to lean on him more heavily. Garrison responded with a series of impressive performances, including a 17-point, 11-rebound showing in a pivotal SEC win over Alabama and a double-double against North Carolina in the CBS Sports Classic.

While not always the flashiest player, Garrison’s consistency and grit have made him a favorite among teammates and fans alike.

“Brandon is the glue guy every team needs,” said former assistant Chin Coleman. “He’s a grinder. He shows up every day, does the dirty work, and doesn’t care about the headlines.”

A Leader in the Locker Room

With several underclassmen declaring for the NBA Draft and others entering the transfer portal after Calipari’s departure, Garrison’s decision to return is about more than just production—it’s about presence. He’s now one of the most experienced players on the roster and will be expected to lead by example as Kentucky builds chemistry under Pope’s new system.

Garrison, a soft-spoken but focused leader, addressed his return in a video posted to social media: “I’ve been blessed to wear Kentucky blue for the past two years, and I’m not done yet. There’s more work to do, and I want to help this team bring a banner back to Rupp.”

That statement resonated with a fan base hungry for postseason success after back-to-back early tournament exits. With Garrison staying, Kentucky retains a cornerstone player capable of anchoring both the defense and offense in the paint.

Fit in Mark Pope’s System

Mark Pope, who arrives at Kentucky following a successful tenure at BYU, is known for his creative offensive sets and emphasis on player development. His teams often feature skilled bigs who can stretch the floor, pass from the high post, and defend in space—areas where Garrison has room to grow.

While Garrison hasn’t consistently shown range beyond 15 feet, Pope believes he can develop those tools.

“He has the body, the touch, and the work ethic,” Pope said during a radio interview. “We want to empower Brandon to take that next step in his game—not just as a paint presence but as a versatile frontcourt piece who can do a little bit of everything.”

Expect Pope to use Garrison in multiple roles, including as a high-post facilitator and screener in pick-and-roll and dribble hand-off actions. On defense, Garrison’s timing and strength will be key in anchoring the paint against a loaded SEC schedule.

What Garrison’s Return Means for the Roster

Garrison’s decision immediately shores up Kentucky’s frontcourt rotation, which was in flux after freshman phenom Zvonimir Ivisic declared for the draft and sophomore forward Adou Thiero entered the portal. With Garrison returning, Kentucky has a proven option around whom the coaching staff can build its interior game plan.

Pope and his staff have been active in the portal as well, with rumors swirling about Kentucky’s interest in several stretch forwards and rim-protecting centers. But Garrison provides a foundation—and a known commodity—that can’t be overstated.

He’s also expected to serve as a mentor to incoming freshmen and transfers, helping ease the transition for a roster that could feature as many as six new faces next season.

“Brandon knows what it means to play at Kentucky,” said new assistant coach Cody Fueger. “That knowledge is invaluable. He can help teach our system, but more importantly, he can show them the standard.”

Fans and Analysts Applaud the Move

The reaction to Garrison’s return has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans flooded social media with appreciation, pointing to his toughness and loyalty. In a time when many players jump at the first sign of change, Garrison’s decision to stay has been viewed as a statement of pride in the Kentucky program.

College basketball analysts echoed that sentiment.

“This is a massive win for Mark Pope,” said ESPN’s Jeff Borzello. “In the midst of turnover and uncertainty, he gets a rock-solid player who knows the league and will buy into whatever’s asked.”

Eyes on a Big Junior Leap

With two full seasons under his belt, Garrison is poised to take the next step—not only as a leader but as a player with All-SEC potential. If he can expand his offensive range and continue to grow as a rim protector, he could become one of the most impactful bigs in the conference.

NBA scouts have also kept a close eye on his development. While he’s not yet considered a top draft prospect, Garrison’s physical tools and motor make him an intriguing sleeper if he can polish up his offensive versatility.

For now, though, the focus is on Kentucky—and on a 2025 season filled with opportunity. With a new coach, new system, and new faces, the Wildcats will lean on Brandon Garrison to set the tone.

And if his first two years are any indication, he’s more than ready for the challenge.

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