Adou Thiero posts cryptic photo of UK logo on Instagram story

FaceProfileby:Thomas Goldkamp•04/14/24
Evaluating The Significance Of Mark Pope's First Coaching Staff At Kentucky | 04.12.24

The cryptic but potentially hopeful messages for the Kentucky basketball program keep coming, hours after new coach Mark Pope dazzled the Big Blue Nation with a fiery and energetic introductory press conference.

In the hours after the dust settled on Rupp Arena, which at times seemed closer to a rock concert than a press conference, something scrolled across social media that will catch the attention of just about every Kentucky fan.

Adou Thiero, who entered the NCAA transfer portal on March 28, posted a simple photo to his Instagram story.

It was a photo of the UK logo on the ceiling, presumably in one of the team facilities. That’s interesting, of course, because it hints at a possible re-think of the transfer by Thiero. And he was one of Kentucky’s most productive players last season.

Adou Thiero started 19 of the 25 games he appeared in for the Wildcats this season, averaging 7.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 1.1 assists per game. He was a veritable force at times.

Getting him back would be a huge step in the rebuilding process for Pope.

Of course, it could just be a random Instagram picture. In any case, it certainly raises eyebrows, especially with other potentially positive news looming for Kentucky.

Zvonimir Ivisic to meet with Mark Pope

Another juicy tidbit of news emerged for the Big Blue Nation on Sunday evening, when The Athletic’s Kyle Tucker reported that big man Zvonimir Ivisic was set to meet with Pope on Monday to discuss his possible future with the Wildcats.

Like Adou Thiero, Ivisic entered the NCAA transfer portal recently.

The talented Croatian was limited by NCAA approval for his eligibility not being granted until late January, but the flashes of potential were there when he played.

In 15 appearances, Ivisic averaged 5.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks while shooting 57.7% from the field and 37.5% from three. Some of his highlights included a strong debut against Georgia along with impressive efforts in wins over Alabama and Arkansas.

Getting either or both of Thiero and Ivisic back would do quite a bit to ensure at least some continuity on the roster next season.

On3’s Sam Gillenwater also contributed to this report.