Kentucky transfer Bryce Hopkins commits to Providence

Kentucky transfer Bryce Hopkins has found his next stop, committing to Providence on Monday.

“I picked Providence because I feel like I was not only wanted but needed,” Hopkins told On3. “From day one, before I made my commitment to Kentucky, me and Coach (Ed) Cooley built a strong relationship. I feel that coach Cooley has a great plan for me to reach my goals of going to the next level.”

Hopkins decided to enter the transfer portal back on April 8 after averaging 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 at the time. “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.”

The 6-foot-7 forward has been a rumored transfer since the start of the spring semester, looking for a greater role elsewhere. That expectation became reality shortly after Kentucky’s season came to an abrupt close.

Hopkins received interest from the likes of Illinois, DePaul and Louisville before choosing Providence.

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.

He initially committed to Louisville out of high school before opening up his options and later committing to Kentucky. He chose the Wildcats over Michigan, Oregon, Iowa State, Illinois, Texas, Providence, and Indiana, among others.

This time around, Hopkins chose the Friars.