Kentucky guard Collin Chandler has officially announced his intentions for the upcoming season, putting an end to weeks of speculation about his future. The 6-foot-4 guard, known for his explosive first step, relentless work ethic, and defensive grit, confirmed that he will return to Lexington for another season, giving the Wildcats a significant boost in their backcourt heading into the 2025-26 campaign.
Chandler’s decision to stay at Kentucky rather than declare for the NBA Draft or explore options in the transfer portal was not a foregone conclusion. With a season that saw him emerge as one of the more dynamic two-way guards in the SEC, his stock had steadily risen among scouts and analysts alike. But for Chandler, the decision wasn’t just about draft positioning—it was about unfinished business, loyalty to his teammates, and a belief that the best version of himself is still being molded under John Calipari’s system.
The announcement came via a heartfelt video posted to Chandler’s social media channels, where he thanked his coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support throughout the year. “This place has become home,” Chandler said in the video. “I’ve grown so much as a player and as a person. I’ve had the best teammates I could ask for, and we’re building something special here. That’s why I’m coming back. We’re not done yet.”
Chandler’s return is a major win for Kentucky, which is already in the midst of retooling after a rollercoaster season that ended earlier than expected in the NCAA Tournament. Despite flashes of brilliance and an electric offense, the Wildcats were unable to make a deep postseason run, falling in the second round in a tough matchup that exposed the team’s lack of experience and defensive consistency.
However, Chandler was one of the few bright spots throughout the season. His defensive versatility, ability to get downhill, and knack for clutch plays made him a consistent presence in big moments. He averaged 13.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting 45% from the field and 34% from beyond the arc. Those numbers, while solid, don’t fully capture the value he brought to the team—particularly on the defensive end, where he often drew the toughest assignments and set the tone with his intensity.
In many ways, Chandler embodies the kind of gritty, hard-nosed player that Kentucky fans have long revered. A former four-star recruit out of Utah, Chandler’s path to stardom wasn’t necessarily lined with the same hype as some of his blue-chip teammates. But his steady improvement, unselfish style, and fearlessness in big moments made him indispensable in Calipari’s rotation. His decision to return reflects not only a desire to improve his own game but also a sense of responsibility to help lead a young core into the next phase of its development.
For Calipari, Chandler’s return adds a layer of stability to a roster that will likely experience significant turnover in the coming months. Several underclassmen are testing the draft waters, and the transfer portal continues to reshape the landscape of college basketball on a near-daily basis. Having a player like Chandler—who understands the system, leads by example, and can be counted on to bring consistent energy every night—is an invaluable asset for any coach, especially in today’s era of college basketball.
The timing of Chandler’s announcement is also notable. As the spring evaluation period kicks into high gear and recruiting heats up, having clarity on key returning players allows the coaching staff to target specific needs in the portal and solidify roles for the upcoming season. Chandler’s presence in the backcourt will give Kentucky a defensive anchor and an experienced floor general to pair alongside younger guards and incoming freshmen.
From a development standpoint, Chandler’s return makes perfect sense. While his athleticism, motor, and defensive chops are NBA-ready, scouts have noted that his perimeter shooting and decision-making in pick-and-roll situations are areas where additional polish could help his draft stock. Another year in college, particularly under a coach with a proven track record of producing NBA-ready guards, could position him for a much stronger draft projection in 2026.
There’s also the matter of legacy. Chandler has never been shy about his aspirations—both as an individual and as part of a team. He has spoken openly about his desire to bring a national championship back to Kentucky and be remembered as one of the greats to wear the jersey. That type of ambition, coupled with a return season that promises to showcase his evolution as a player, could be the perfect storm for Chandler to elevate both himself and his program to new heights.
His announcement has already sparked excitement among the Big Blue Nation. Social media was flooded with celebratory messages from fans, alumni, and fellow athletes who welcomed the news with open arms. “Let’s run it back,” wrote former Kentucky standout Tyrese Maxey, now a star with the Philadelphia 76ers. “Proud of you, young king.”
The enthusiasm is well-deserved. In an era where player movement has become the norm, Chandler’s decision to stay speaks volumes about his character and commitment. It also offers a refreshing counter-narrative to the assumption that all rising players are eager to bolt at the first opportunity for professional paychecks. For Chandler, the bigger picture still includes Lexington, still includes Kentucky, and still includes college basketball.
Chandler’s impact extends beyond the court as well. He has become a beloved figure in the community, frequently participating in youth clinics, charity events, and NIL-sponsored community service initiatives. His presence at Kentucky is felt not only in the box score but in the way he represents the program. As one fan put it on X, formerly Twitter, “He’s the kind of guy you want your son to look up to. Plays the game the right way, gives back, and never takes a day off.”
As the Wildcats begin preparing for next season, Chandler’s leadership will be front and center. He’ll likely be asked to take on an even greater role—both in terms of production and mentorship—as the roster takes shape. With several highly touted freshmen set to arrive and a handful of transfers reportedly on Kentucky’s radar, Chandler will be the glue that holds it all together, guiding the team through what will surely be another high-stakes, high-expectation campaign.
For Kentucky fans, the message is clear: Collin Chandler is all in. And with his return, the Wildcats are once again poised to make a serious run. The foundation has been laid. The pieces are falling into place. And the guard who wears his heart on his sleeve and pride in his jersey is coming back to finish what he started.
In a sport increasingly defined by change, Chandler’s choice to stay is a reminder of what can still be built when loyalty meets opportunity. It’s a bet on himself, on his team, and on the legacy he hopes to leave behind. As Chandler himself put it at the end of his announcement, “This is where I’m supposed to be. Let’s go get it.”