Kentucky's Daimion Collins enters transfer portal

Kentucky forward Daimion Collins has entered the transfer portal, ending his two-year career in Lexington.

Long considered the likely path for the former five-star, Collins officially entered on Friday.

“Dear Big Blue Nation, in the last two years, I have encountered so many amazing people and had some incredible memories that I will cherish a lifetime,” Collins told On3’s Joe Tipton. “To my teammates, thank you for the strong bond and brotherhood. We challenged and supported each other every day, and it actually made us better. I’m forever grateful for the valuable experiences we shared together. I want to take a moment to thank Coach Cal and staff,  for giving me the opportunity to represent BBN and continue my growth as a young man.

“While this has been a difficult decision, it’s the best decision for my future. With that being said I will be entering the transfer portal.”

The former McDonald’s All-American averaged 1.9 points and 1.9 rebounds in 2022-23 after putting up 2.9 points and 2.0 rebounds per contest as a freshman in 2021-22. He never averaged more than 7.9 minutes per contest as a Wildcat.

Collins, a native of Atlanta, Texas, was the No. 15 overall recruit in the 2021 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Coming out of high school, he picked Kentucky over Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Texas, and Kansas.

Hitting the portal gives Collins a chance to return closer to home and be with his family after losing his father, Ben Collins, to open his sophomore campaign. He also lost his grandfather in the last week, a devastating year for the 6-foot-9 forward.

“Daimion Collins had a year I wouldn’t wish on anyone & has been through more than any player should, including losing his grandfather in the last week,” John Calipari said this morning. “He’s a talented player & a good person w/ a bright future. (Daimion) and his family know that I’ll always be here for them.”

Expect local schools such as Houston and Texas to be interested in the former five-star, hoping to turn his undeniable potential into production.