Since Mark Pope’s arrival there have been different players that have been either suggested or implied that would follow him from Provo to Lexington. Aly Khalifa, and Noah Waterman chose to go to Louisville, Dallin Hall returned to BYU, along with Ritchie Saunders, who was the only other offered player outside of Robison, who came here to Lexington with his wife on a visit. Saunders would take photos and fill out the paperwork, only to announce in the wee hours of the night that he is returning to BYU. It must be stated that while he hadn't played at BYU due to missions, Coach Pope did in fact manage to grab the most highly ranked recruit to ever sign with BYU in Collin Chandler (ranked #32 in 2022).
However, no player was more wanted by Kentucky fans than Jaxson Robinson. The 6’8 Big 12 6th Man of the Year guard was instantly a hot commodity and bearing a move back to college (declared for the NBA draft) it was largely thought that he would join his Coach in Lexington. Well after what felt like a long time of waiting, which really was only a week of time. Jaxson Robinson has signed with the University of Kentucky.
The 6’8 guard from Ada, Oklahoma started his career in the SEC with Texas A&M. Robinson was slated to be part of the 2021 class but would eventually reclassify and start a year earlier at TAMU. After, he would then move on to Arkansas where he played around 10 minute once again. Not feeling the situation that he hoped for, he decided to transfer to have a more prominent role, which landed him in Provo, Utah (BYU). While there Robinson would become a starter his first year, which showed great statistical improvement. And after battling a injury in his second year, he chose to take the role of 6th man this past season. While in this role he saw his best year to date, setting career highs with 14ppg, and shooting 35% from three, he also shot 91% from free throw and seen his highest overall FG% at 43%.
Jaxson Robinson not only brings a scoring threat that is much needed, but his experience within the offense of Coach Pope is a major addition for the Cats. He will be able to lead by example and produce readily for Kentucky from game one. Robinson flirted with the idea of staying in the draft (even up to the latest moments). Scouts want to see Robinson do what he did this past year, again. And with that opportunity to do just that on an even bigger stageat Kentucky. The Big 12 6th Man of the year decided to make Lexington his new home.
Comments