Zvonimir Ivisic still in Europe, expected back with Kentucky 'next week'

Zvonimir Ivisic will not be with Kentucky for Friday night’s game against Illinois State and is still in Croatia, the program announced. He is expected to be back “next week” as he awaits clearance from the NCAA.

Ivisic was considered one of the biggest additions — literally, at 7-foot-2 — for John Calipari and the Wildcats this offseason. He is cleared to practice, but cannot participate in game competition until the NCAA clears him.

The plan was for “Big Z” to return to Europe over the holiday break to catch up with his family. Although UK plays Friday night, he’s getting an extended break, according to the program.

“Zvonimir Ivisic will not be with the team for tonight’s game vs. Illinois State,” UK said on X, updating Ivisic’s status. “Ivisic has been given extra time at home in Croatia following the holiday break and is expected back next week.”

Last week, reports indicated Kentucky wasn’t entirely confident Ivisic would see the court this season and instead, he might return to Europe to train for the NBA Draft. Ivisic then released a statement via social media, confirming the plan was to head back home for the break.

“I met with Coach Cal and discussed going home for the holidays,” Ivisic said. “My family and I worked really hard to gain admission to Kentucky, which took quite a while. With all the ups and downs of this process, it’s been stressful and emotional for me and my family, but I can tell all of BBN that I’ve done everything I can. I’ve got a 3.25 GPA.

“I love this school. I love my teammates and going against other great players every day in practice. I love being coached and challenged and I’m hoping to hear that I can play soon.”

Calipari addressed Ivisic’s situation after UK’s victory over Louisville, reiterating his desire for answers one way or another. Adding Ivisic would be huge for the Wildcats, who bring a 9-2 record into Friday’s game.

“It hasn’t changed. All that he’s been through — plus he was 242 and went down to 219. He’s not sleeping, struggling to eat, you know what I’m saying? For his sake, I said I was good with it,” Calipari said after Kentucky’s resounding win over Louisville. “His parents are also — you know, he’s going to go home and be back before the Illinois State game. Hopefully we hear something.”