"Growing concern" that Zvonimir Ivisic could soon leave for Europe

The longer the Big Z situation drags out, the worse his chances of suiting up for Kentucky look.

We received some clarity surrounding the eligibility of 7-foot-2 Croatian freshman Zvonimir Ivisic, who continues to wait on a ruling by the NCAA — and it’s not exactly positive. The Athletic’s Kyle Tucker wrote on Tuesday night that there is “at least some concern” that Ivisic could head back to Europe during the upcoming winter break. KSR’s Matt Jones followed up by adding that there is a “growing concern” this will ultimately be the case.

“Most feel if clearance doesn’t happen by New Years, this is likely result,” Jones wrote.

This has been a growing concern. Most feel if clearance doesn’t happen by New Years, this is likely result https://t.co/bAOf1Td46x

— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) December 20, 2023

Pilgrim’s Take

Ivisic plans to go home for Christmas break — the only question is when (or if) he returns to the United States. Though nothing has been finalized, the next steps are being decided should the NCAA not make a ruling on the 7-2 forward in the near future. This is five months of hassle for both sides that has resulted in zero games played one third of the way through the regular season. At some point, something’s got to give. Hope isn’t lost that he could still be ruled eligible in the coming days and stick around as planned, but if not, the possibility of returning home and preparing for the draft is on the table. It’s not what either side wants, but Ivisic came to Kentucky in hopes of making an immediate impact before turning his dream of playing in the NBA into a reality. That can’t happen sitting on the bench as a fringe draft prospect.

John Calipari has made it clear he will always do what’s best for his players. In this case, letting Ivisic return home may be the next example.

It’s not done, but the clock is ticking.

— Jack Pilgrim