Kentucky fans might want to start getting excited — because one of the most underrated players on the roster is ready to take a major leap.
Sophomore guard Collin Chandler is flying under the national radar, but insiders believe he could be one of the Wildcats’ breakout stars in 2025–26.
Chandler arrived in Lexington last year after completing a two-year mission trip, which meant he came in a bit rusty and struggled to find his rhythm early. His shot wasn’t falling, his defense needed work, and he had to shake off the competitive gap. But as the season progressed, fans saw a different version of Chandler — one that looked far more confident and comfortable.
By the time March rolled around, Chandler was delivering meaningful minutes in the NCAA Tournament. His performance against Troy, when he scored nine points in just 10 minutes, turned heads and gave Big Blue Nation a glimpse of what’s to come.
Before his mission, Chandler was one of the top-rated four-star guards in his recruiting class, and the talent that once made him so highly regarded is starting to shine through again.
College basketball insider Jon Rothstein recently named Chandler one of 20 players across the country poised for a breakout season, writing:
> “Returning personnel is far more important than incoming personnel in college basketball, and that’s why Chandler should have an excellent chance to carve out a role in the Wildcats’ deep rotation. The 6-5 guard already has a year under his belt in Mark Pope’s system … Don’t be shocked if Chandler makes a jump during his second year in Lexington.”
At 6’5”, Chandler has the versatility to play multiple positions in the backcourt. Some around the program even believe he’ll be the primary backup point guard behind Jaland Lowe. Reports suggest his passing has improved significantly, which could make him an even bigger weapon for Coach Mark Pope’s offense.
Chandler also has NBA upside, with the ability to stretch the floor and hit big shots — something Kentucky will need off the bench this season. If he can consistently facilitate the offense and knock down key three-pointers, expect him to become a major contributor and a fan favorite.
In short, Big Blue Nation might be about to witness a completely new version of Collin Chandler — and it couldn’t come at a better time for Kentucky’s backcourt depth.
