Report: Kentucky forward Daimion Collins makes decision on 2022-23 season

Kentucky forward Daimion Collins, a freshman and former five-star recruit, plans to return for his sophomore season with the Wildcats, according to 247 Sports’ Travis Branham. The 6-foot-9 Texas native played in 27 games this season but saw limited minutes with just one start.

During his freshman season at Kentucky, Daimion Collins averaged 2.9 points and 2.0 rebounds in just 7.4 minutes per game across 27 appearances. He now plans to return and further his development, rather than test the NBA Draft waters or enter the transfer portal.

Collins initially chose Kentucky over Alabama, Kansas, Texas and others after being ranked the No. 18 overall prospect in the On3 Consensus rankings. He also No. 1 in the state of Texas but brought raw talent to the table which he worked to improve all year.

Although Kentucky suffered an upset loss against 15-seed St. Peter’s in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament this week, Collins’ return becomes the first major piece in John Calipari’s 2022-23 roster retention plan to compliment the No. 2 ranked incoming class of recruits.

Kentucky’s roster decisions

After a disappointing postseason in 2022, Kentucky and John Calipari must look toward the future with the roster construction of 2022-23’s team. Daimion Collins promises to become a part of that plan, but many pieces remain uncertain.

Along with incoming recruits Cason Wallace and Chris Livingston, reclassified guard Shaedon Sharpe could become a key part of the new-look team. However, Sharpe is also eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft if he chooses to enter.

More decisions must come across the current roster, whether some choose to enter the transfer portal or players on the edge of the NBA Draft radar choose to return for another season. 2022 SEC Player of the Year Oscar Tshiebwe stands out among those who must make a decision.