Former Kentucky guard Devin Askew hits the transfer portal

Former Kentucky guard Devin Askew is on the move again, entering the NCAA transfer portal after one year at Texas.

The 6-foot-3 sophomore will explore his options for the second time in as many offseasons.

“I would like to start by thanking the University of Texas for giving me the opportunity to come and play the game I love,” Askew announced Tuesday. “To my teammates, I wouldn’t have gone to battle with anyone else on the court, and I can’t express how much I appreciate every one of you.

“I’d also like to thank Coach Beard and the entire coaching staff for providing me with their support and guidance this past year. You all allowed me to grow as both a basketball player and as a man.

“After much thought and deliberation, I have decided to enter the transfer portal.”

The former four-star guard averaged 2.1 points, 1.3 assists and 0.9 rebounds per contest in 2021-22, playing just 14.9 minutes per game. He never hit the double-figure scoring mark in 34 games for the Longhorns and scored more than one basket six times.

The lack of consistent playing time and production comes after Texas head coach Chris Beard spent the prior offseason calling Askew a future “all-time great” for the Longhorns.

“I know he’s one of the best young players in college basketball,” Beard said back in October. “There’s going to be a major role for him on this year’s team. … I don’t want to put all the weight on his shoulders, but I’ve got no problem telling you if he stays the course, he’ll end up being one of the all-time greats.”

Askew spent his first season at Kentucky, averaging 6.5 points, 2.9 assists and 2.6 rebounds in 29.0 minutes per contest. He shot just 34.5% from the field and 27.8% from three as the lead guard of the Wildcats.

The Sacramento, CA native put his name in the transfer portal on April 5, 2021 before committing to Texas eight days later on April 13. Kentucky ultimately replaced Askew with Sahvir Wheeler and TyTy Washington in the backcourt.