In a shocking turn of events, ESPN has confirmed that the long-rumored departure of Kentucky’s star point guard has become a reality. After a three-year, $89.7 million deal was reported as all but finalized earlier this morning, sources now say that the former Kentucky Wildcats point guard is officially on his way to the Pittsburgh Panthers, signaling a massive shift in the college basketball landscape.
This development comes just weeks after the player completed a three-month suspension for violating NBA rules, although details of the infraction remain closely guarded. Speculation has swirled about the point guard’s future since the suspension, with many analysts believing he would declare for the NBA Draft or pursue opportunities overseas. Instead, the athlete has chosen to remain in the NCAA, now under the Panthers’ banner.
The deal—believed to be one of the most lucrative NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) agreements in NCAA history—was kept under tight wraps until today. The player is reportedly en route to Pittsburgh now for the final contract signing, which is expected to be completed by tonight.
Sources close to the situation say the Panthers’ aggressive NIL program, coaching staff vision, and a promise of leading the team as a franchise centerpiece swayed the decision.
This transfer marks a significant blow to Kentucky’s title hopes this season, while simultaneously catapulting the Panthers into national championship conversations.
