Brandon Garrison, a 6-foot-11 forward from Oklahoma City, has been a notable figure in the college basketball transfer landscape. After a promising freshman year at Oklahoma State, Garrison transferred to the University of Kentucky in April 2024. His journey from a McDonald’s All-American to a key player for the Wildcats has been marked by significant developments and ongoing speculation about his role within the team.
During his freshman season at Oklahoma State, Garrison made an immediate impact. He appeared in all 32 games, starting 29, and averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. His field goal percentage stood at an impressive 58.9%, ranking among the top for a freshman in the program’s history. Garrison’s standout performances included three games where he scored over 20 points, highlighting his potential as a formidable presence in the paint.
The transition to Kentucky was influenced by coaching changes at Oklahoma State. Following the departure of head coach Mike Boynton, Garrison entered the transfer portal in March 2024, seeking a new environment to further his collegiate career. He committed to Kentucky without an official visit, choosing the Wildcats over programs like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
At Kentucky, Garrison joined a revamped roster under head coach Mark Pope. The Wildcats’ frontcourt was bolstered by Garrison’s arrival, alongside other transfers like Amari Williams and Andrew Carr. Garrison’s defensive prowess, particularly his shot-blocking ability, was seen as a valuable asset to Kentucky’s lineup.
However, Garrison’s role at Kentucky has evolved. After starting 29 games as a freshman, he has primarily come off the bench for the Wildcats. Despite this shift, he has continued to contribute positively, improving aspects of his game such as ball protection and post play. Coach Pope has praised Garrison’s development, noting his potential for a successful professional career.
Recent developments have added to the speculation surrounding Garrison’s future with Kentucky. The Wildcats’ roster has seen changes, including the decommitment of point guard Acaden Lewis and the addition of veteran point guard Jaland Lowe. These shifts have led to discussions about Garrison’s position on the team, especially with the arrival of new frontcourt players like Jayden Quaintance and Mouhamed Dioubate. The increased competition for playing time has fueled rumors about Garrison potentially exploring opportunities elsewhere.
As of April 11, 2025, no official announcement has been made regarding Garrison’s status with the Wildcats. The speculation about his potential move through the transfer portal reflects the dynamic nature of college basketball rosters, where player roles and team needs can change rapidly. Fans and analysts alike are closely monitoring the situation, awaiting clarity on Garrison’s decision.
Brandon Garrison’s journey highlights the complexities athletes face in collegiate sports, balancing personal development, team dynamics, and future aspirations. Whether he remains at Kentucky or seeks a new path, his contributions to the Wildcats have been significant, and his next steps will be keenly observed by the basketball community.