John Calipari introduces Zvonimir Ivisic to Kentucky fans

Kentucky, meet Zvonimir Ivisic, or as you may know him, “Big Z.” On Monday, UK head coach John Calipari sat down with the highly-anticipated freshman and conducted an impromptu interview to help fans get to know the towering 20-year-old.

“My mom wanted me to finish school and I wanted to play basketball, so we kind of found a way to go to college and play basketball,” Ivisic said regarding his decision to come to Kentucky. “I just want to help the team to win and that’s mostly it. I want to play for [Calipari] also.”

It’s been a tumultuous journey for Ivisic to end up with the Wildcats. Ivisic committed to and signed with Kentucky in early August. However, by September, murmurs regarding issues with his admittance, ones that stemmed from a matter regarding his English proficiency test, became louder and louder.

Get to know a little bit about Big Z as he gets settled in on campus! https://t.co/q17fZJKIJi pic.twitter.com/ibDHxk0aD1

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) October 16, 2023

After a month of reportedly battling with Kentucky’s admissions office, Ivisic officially joined the team. The Big Blue Nation is understandably excited. Ivisic averaged 11.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 blocks per game in the FIBA U20 European Championship. He also shot 34% from three and averaged just under 20 minutes per contest.

Zvonimir Ivisic prepares for the next step

Ivisic was invited to the 2023 NBA pre-draft for his efforts. However, after considering his options, the Croatian opted to attend UK. In his conversation with Calipari, Ivisic highlighted his experience at the pre-draft.

“I got invited there so I could workout with other guys, other teams. It meant a lot to me,” Ivisic said. “I had a great time. It was a great experience.”

While Ivisic enjoyed the experience, it also helped him realize he wasn’t ready to step into the NBA. He claims scouts told him he needs to particularly improve his strength and conditioning. Calipari believes Kentucky will be the perfect place to help him do that.

Remember the name

The 64-year-old head coach also added fans must learn how to pronounce Ivisic’s name before he becomes a star for the ‘Cats.

“Zvonimir. Say it again. Zvonimir. I’m the only one who can call him Big Z. Everyone else should call him by his first name,” Calipari said as Ivisic smiled. “I’m excited you’re here… He’s one of the nicest people, a great smile — he’s gonna be good.”

Ivisic greeted fans at Kentucky’s annual “Big Blue Madness” event, but he did not play in the intrasquad scrimmage. He is expected to make his debut on the court at Kentucky’s Blue-White game on Oct. 21. The game will be at Northern Kentucky University.