With a concise statement and a highlight reel shared to Instagram on Saturday night, Brandon Garrison removed any uncertainty surrounding his basketball future: “I’m back.” The sophomore forward will return to Kentucky for a second season, solidifying his role in a reshaped Wildcats roster under head coach Mark Pope.

Garrison’s return marks a key development for a Kentucky team entering Year 2 of Pope’s tenure. After an offseason of roster turnover, his decision offers both continuity and depth in a frontcourt that now features one of the top transfer classes in the nation. Growth and Adaptation in Year One Transferring from Oklahoma State last offseason, Garrison quickly integrated into Pope’s system, appearing in all 35 games and emerging as a steady contributor off the bench. He averaged 5.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, while shooting 50.9% from the field and 30% from three, a notable development for a player who didn’t attempt a three-pointer during his freshman season in Stillwater. Beyond the stats, Garrison’s year in Lexington was defined by steady growth and a willingness to expand his game. Whether flashing new offensive tools or showing improved decision-making, he became a reliable and increasingly versatile presence on the court.

Impact Moments and Playoff Presence Garrison’s contributions often came at critical moments. He delivered 13 points and six rebounds in just 16 minutes during Kentucky’s first-round NCAA Tournament win over Troy. Other standout performances included a 15-point outing against LSU, a 12-point, 4-block game in a road win over Oklahoma, and a 10-point, 9-rebound effort in a comeback victory over Gonzaga.

Head coach Mark Pope highlighted Garrison’s decision-making and poise, noting his advanced court vision and ability to make the right play under pressure. “He’s a high-level decision-maker,” Pope said. “Sometimes wrong, never in doubt, and that’s what you want in a player.” Role in a Competitive Rotation With Garrison’s return, Kentucky’s frontcourt becomes even deeper heading into the 2025-26 season. The roster now features 12 players, including highly-ranked transfers such as Jayden Quaintance, Jaland Lowe, and Mouhamed Dioubate, along with returning players like Otega Oweh and Collin Chandler. Despite the influx of frontcourt talent, Garrison’s decision to stay reflects confidence in his development and a belief in his role moving forward. The competition for minutes will be intense, but it also sets the stage for a dynamic and flexible lineup. Looking Ahead Brandon Garrison’s return provides stability to a program undergoing rapid transformation. As Kentucky prepares for the upcoming season, his presence adds experience, adaptability, and a clear signal that the Wildcats are building around players committed to growth.