Kentucky forward Bryce Hopkins enters transfer portal

Kentucky’s Bryce Hopkins will explore his options in the transfer portal, sources tell KSR and On3.

Hopkins averaged 2.1 points and 1.4 rebounds in just 6.4 minutes per contest as a freshman.

“This journey has been a dream come true,” Hopkins announced. “I’ve always wanted to play for Kentucky growing up and it came true. I can’t thank the Big Blue Nation enough for embracing me like you did. There are so many memories that I will keep with me forever. I want to thank my brothers that I’ve grinded with all season. I have built a bond with all of you that nobody can break, and I love you all.

“I want to thank Coach Calipari, Coach Bru(iser Flint), Coach Jai (Lucas), Coach Chin (Coleman) and Coach Orlando (Antigua) for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play here.

“But with that being said my parents and I have put a lot of thought into it and feel that it’s best for me to enter the transfer portal.”

Lexington you will always have a special place in my heart💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/YCfZhhr1oy

— Bryce Hopkins (@BryceHopkins) April 7, 2022

The 6-foot-7 forward has been a rumored transfer since the start of the spring semester and the ongoing expectation has been that he will explore his options this offseason. That expectation became a reality Thursday morning when he officially hit the portal.

Sources tell KSR that Illinois, Providence and DePaul are among the top schools to keep an eye on, with the Fighting Illini seen as the early favorite.

Consistency with his role and opportunities for success will be Hopkins’ top priorities when choosing his next school.

The versatile combo-forward was a consensus four-star prospect and top-50 recruit out of high school. He averaged 24.4 points, 12.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.5 blocks per game as a senior at Fenwick (IL) and was named the MaxPreps Illinois Player of the Year. Hopkins was named to the Jordan Brand Classic roster and played in the Allen Iverson Roundball Classic.

UPDATE: John Calipari tweeted about Hopkins’ announcement, wishing him well.

“Bryce is an exceptional kid and as we always do, we will support him and his family in their decision. I’m proud of Bryce for not only being a great teammate, but he came to the gym ready to work and be the best he could for us each and every day.”

Bryce is an exceptional kid and as we always do, we will support him and his family in their decision. I’m proud of Bryce for not only being a great teammate, but he came to the gym ready to work and be the best he could for us each and every day. https://t.co/5NPwoPqeCM

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) April 7, 2022