Adou Thiero enters 2024 NBA Draft, could return to Kentucky

We already knew Adou Thiero was in the transfer portal, exploring his other options among college basketball programs. But he’s not limiting himself to a breakup with Kentucky — or even a return to school at all.

The sophomore forward out of Leetsdale, PA announced Saturday he would be entering the 2024 NBA Draft while keeping all college options open, including a potential third season in Lexington. His decision comes after a sit-down with John Calipari this week.

“After talking to Coach Calipari, I feel it is best at this time to test the waters professionally, entering my name in the 2024 NBA Draft, while keeping all of my options open, including a return to Kentucky,” Thiero said. “I’d like to thank the fans, my coaches and teammates for their support over the last two years. I look forward to going through this process to determine the next step for me.”

The 6-8 standout averaged 7.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per contest in his second season with the Wildcats.

Coach Cal previously hinted at a potential third year for Thiero at Kentucky — if not hoped to speak it into existence — back in February, discussing his growth and potential as a junior in Lexington.

“It’s all there for him. He’s gotten so much better,” he said. “He’s not even what he was a year ago and what he is now. And I still think he’s going to be 6-9. He’s probably 6-7, maybe a little bit bigger now. By the time next year rolls around, he’ll be 6-9.”

Jonathan Givony included Thiero at No. 27 overall in ESPN’s first 2025 NBA mock draft, betting on his physical tools as a potential first-rounder. He’d like to see what is professional outlook is now, however.

Kentucky needs the athletic forward back in Lexington for year three.

On Wednesday's show @JackPilgrimKSR & @gbbcountry discussed why Kentucky needs to get Adou Thiero back.

Full show: https://t.co/2sZLVExhAJ pic.twitter.com/OZDBhdreKe

— KSR (@KSRonX) March 29, 2024