Brandon Garrison Reveals Why He Decided to Stay at Kentucky: A Deep Dive into His Loyalty, Legacy, and the Future of the Wildcats.
In an era of college basketball where the transfer portal is more active than ever and players are increasingly eager to take their talents to the NBA or other programs after just one season, Brandon Garrison’s decision to stay at the University of Kentucky for another year is making headlines—and raising eyebrows across the NCAA.
The 6-foot-11 center, who averaged 11.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game in his freshman season, was a major contributor to the Wildcats’ deep March Madness run last season, helping the team reach the Elite Eight. With pro scouts watching his every move, many expected Garrison to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. Instead, the sophomore big man stunned the college basketball world when he announced he would return to Kentucky for the 2025–26 season.
Now, for the first time since making that pivotal decision, Garrison is opening up about the real reasons he chose to stay—and how his commitment to the Wildcats goes beyond just basketball.
The Decision That Shocked the Bluegrass
When Brandon Garrison took to social media in May to announce his return to Lexington, the response was electric. Fans flooded his Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) feeds with messages of support, gratitude, and excitement. Within minutes, “#OneMoreYear” and “#GarrisonReturns” were trending nationwide.
But behind the post was a decision that had been weighing on the Oklahoma native for weeks.
“It wasn’t easy,” Garrison admitted in an exclusive sit-down interview with The Lexington Herald-Leader. “I had conversations with my family, Coach Pope, former players, and even some NBA agents. Everyone had an opinion. At the end of the day, I had to ask myself—am I ready to go? Am I ready to leave Kentucky and everything this place represents to me?”
A Coach’s Influence: Mark Pope’s Impact
One of the most important figures in Garrison’s decision was new Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, who took over after John Calipari’s departure to Arkansas. Pope, a former Wildcat himself and national champion in 1996, quickly established a bond with the returning players. Garrison described Pope’s leadership as “genuine,” “visionary,” and “unshakably loyal.”
“Coach Pope didn’t just talk to me about basketball,” Garrison said. “He talked to me about becoming a man, about leadership, about my legacy here. He told me I could be part of building something special—a new chapter for Kentucky basketball. And I believed him.”
Pope, who has been vocal about bringing tradition and player development back to the core of Kentucky’s program, told the media he sees Garrison as “the kind of cornerstone you build a culture around.”
The Brotherhood and a Chance to Lead
Another major reason for Garrison’s return was the bond he shares with his teammates. Players like D.J. Wagner, Reed Sheppard, and Justin Edwards have formed a tight-knit group, and Garrison views them as more than teammates—they’re brothers.
“We’ve been through the fire together,” Garrison said. “We came up short in the Elite Eight last year. We felt like we had more to give. I couldn’t just walk away from that. Not yet.”
Several of his teammates also opted to return or delay their NBA decisions, partly influenced by Garrison’s leadership. According to team insiders, his presence in the locker room is a stabilizing force.
“Brandon’s the heart of the team,” said sophomore guard Rob Dillingham. “When he said he was coming back, it set the tone for the rest of us. That’s the kind of guy he is.”
Draft Stock vs. Development: A Calculated Move
Garrison’s decision also came down to his future in the NBA—and how best to prepare for it. While projected as a late first-round or early second-round pick in many mock drafts, Garrison felt another year in college could significantly improve his stock.
“I didn’t want to go to the league just to be there,” Garrison said. “I want to be ready. I want to dominate when I get there. I know what I need to work on—strength, mid-range shooting, passing out of the post. Coach Pope and his staff laid out a plan that will elevate my game. I trusted that.”
It’s a rare mindset in a college basketball landscape where players often rush to the next level, sometimes before they’re ready. Garrison’s decision reflects a long-term approach—and maturity beyond his years.
A City That Feels Like Home
Beyond the court, Garrison has embraced Lexington as his second home. From community service to youth clinics and charity events, the sophomore center has become a fan favorite and ambassador for the university.
“The fans here are different,” Garrison said. “They care about you as a person. They’ve shown me love since day one, and that means something. This is home now.”
Local businesses have also backed Garrison through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, allowing him to stay financially secure while continuing to grow as a student-athlete.
What’s Next for Garrison—and Kentucky?
With Garrison anchoring the frontcourt, expectations are sky-high for the 2025–26 Wildcats. Coach Pope has reloaded with a top-five recruiting class and several key transfers, and insiders believe this roster has Final Four potential.
“We’re coming back with a mission,” Garrison said. “We’ve got unfinished business. The way last season ended still burns in all of us. We’re coming back stronger, smarter, and more connected. Kentucky basketball is back.”
His return also signals a cultural shift at Kentucky: one rooted in loyalty, tradition, and a renewed commitment to development over quick exits. Garrison’s choice could have a ripple effect—encouraging future stars to consider the value of staying another year, of building a legacy instead of chasing a quick payday.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Player
As the interview wrapped, Garrison was asked what he wants people to remember about him—not just as a basketball player, but as a person.
“I want them to say I gave everything to this school. That I stood for something bigger than myself. That I led with heart and stayed when it mattered most.”
With those words, it’s clear: Brandon Garrison isn’t just staying for another season. He’s staying to become a legend.
And in a program rich with them, that’s saying something.
By: Matthew Collins
Senior Sports Writer, The Lexington Herald-Leader.
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