Brandon Garrison to Return to Kentucky for 2025-26 Season
Brandon Garrison, Kentucky Wildcats forward, returns for 2025–26. He announces his return to the team. He remains a key player and a strong presence, added by Coach Pope last season.
Last season, Garrison played 35 games. He switched from Oklahoma State, where his college career was strong. He averaged 5.9 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. He shot over 50% from the field with clear precision.
Before joining Kentucky, Garrison shone at Oklahoma State. He started 29 of 32 games and averaged 7.5 points and 5.3 rebounds. His move happened when Pope began a full roster update at his alma mater. The transfer came as Pope rewrote the team’s plan.
In the first round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Garrison stepped up. In just 16 minutes, he scored 13 points and grabbed six rebounds. His effort led Kentucky to beat Troy 76–57 and move into the Round of 32. Yet, a loss to Tennessee in the Sweet Sixteen ended their title bid.
After the game, Coach Pope praised Garrison. He stressed Garrison’s clear, smart decisions on the court. Pope said, "Brandon is fun. He may be wrong sometimes, but he is never in doubt. I love that about him." Pope also admired Garrison’s developed float game and sharp three-point shooting. He added, "When he holds the ball, he watches three cutters and picks the right one. His mind works at an advanced level."
Now, Garrison prepares for his second season with Coach Pope. He joins a team active in the transfer portal. Kentucky will add a top-rated group, including former Arizona State forward Jayden Quaintance, ranked the No. 4 overall player in the On3 Industry Transfer Rankings.
Garrison’s return brings hope for Kentucky. The Wildcats plan to build on last season’s work and push further in the NCAA Tournament.
