Collin Chandler has entered the NCAA transfer portal after spending two seasons with the University of Kentucky. The 6-foot-5 guard, who emerged as a primary offensive threat for the Wildcats this past year, is now seeking a new collegiate home following a breakout sophomore campaign.
Chandler’s departure marks a significant loss of perimeter scoring for Kentucky. After starting 31 of 36 games, the Farmington, Utah native established himself as one of the most efficient shooters in the Southeastern Conference, providing a consistent floor-spacing presence that anchored the Wildcats’ offensive sets.
According to reports from Pete Nakos of On3, Chandler’s entry into the portal comes with a specific “do not contact” designation. This administrative tag prevents college coaches from initiating outreach to the player; instead, Chandler will maintain full control over his recruitment, initiating conversations only with the programs he is interested in exploring.
Collin Chandler has entered the transfer portal, according to multiple reports.
He is tagged “Do Not Contact,” meaning coaches cannot initiate contact, but Chandler can reach out to schools.
Here’s the latest @KentuckyMBB 2025-26 roster update:@LEX18News pic.twitter.com/YSpNbuNlS1
— BBN Tonight (@BBNTonight) April 9, 2026
A Breakout Campaign in Lexington
Chandler’s trajectory at Kentucky was defined by a rapid ascent from a supporting role to a focal point of the rotation. During his sophomore season, he averaged 9.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. These figures underscore his versatility as a guard who could contribute across all facets of the game while maintaining a high scoring volume.
The hallmark of his tenure in Lexington was his precision from beyond the arc. Chandler connected on 41 percent of his three-point attempts, leading the team in volume and cementing his reputation as a lethal perimeter threat. This efficiency allowed Kentucky to stretch opposing defenses, creating more room for interior play.
His impact was most evident in high-pressure moments, including a signature shot to defeat Tennessee in Rupp Arena that has since become a highlight of his time with the program.
With multiple reports of Collin Chandler hitting the portal, I’ll never forget this shot to beat Tennessee in Rupp Arena this past season. pic.twitter.com/gb6owdGWBU
— Nick Lazaroff (@NickelLaz) April 8, 2026
The Path from Utah to the Portal
Chandler’s journey to the NCAA transfer portal was unconventional. A former top-35 national recruit, he originally committed to play for Mark Pope at BYU. However, when Pope was hired as the head coach at Kentucky in 2024, Chandler chose to follow his mentor to the Bluegrass State.
His arrival on campus was also delayed by personal commitments; Chandler spent two years on a mission before beginning his collegiate career. This gap in traditional athletic development did not hinder his progression, as he transitioned quickly into the rigors of SEC basketball.
Sophomore Season Statistical Breakdown
| Metric | Average/Value |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 9.7 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 41% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 2.8 |
| Assists Per Game | 2.3 |
| Steals Per Game | 1.2 |
| Games Started | 31 of 36 |
Implications for the Kentucky Roster
The loss of a player with Chandler’s specific skill set creates a void in Kentucky’s 2025-26 roster planning. Finding a 6-foot-5 guard who can shoot over 40 percent from deep on high volume is a tough task in the current landscape of college basketball. Mark Pope will now need to decide whether to fill this gap via the transfer portal himself or by leaning on incoming freshmen.
For Chandler, the “do not contact” status is a strategic move. By controlling the flow of information and outreach, he avoids the chaotic “feeding frenzy” often associated with high-profile portal entries. This allows him to vet potential programs based on fit, playing time, and coaching philosophy rather than responding to a deluge of unsolicited offers.
As the offseason progresses, the primary focus for observers will be which programs Chandler chooses to contact. Given his pedigree as a top recruit and his proven production at a powerhouse program like Kentucky, he is expected to be a highly sought-after asset for any team looking to upgrade their perimeter shooting.
The next confirmed checkpoint in this process will be the official announcement of Chandler’s new commitment, should he decide to transfer to another NCAA program. Until then, his status remains as an active member of the transfer portal.
We want to hear from you. How does Collin Chandler’s departure affect Kentucky’s outlook for next season? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
