Brandon Garrison’s decision to return to the University of Kentucky for the 2025–26 men’s basketball season is a pivotal moment for both the player and the program. After transferring from Oklahoma State, Garrison’s initial season with the Wildcats showcased his potential, and his return signals a commitment to further development and team success.
Early Promise at Oklahoma State
Before joining Kentucky, Garrison made a significant impact at Oklahoma State. In his freshman season, he played in 32 games, starting 29, and averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. Notably, he shot 57.2% from the field, ranking fourth all-time among OSU rookies with at least 80 field goals made. His performance in Big 12 play was particularly impressive, with three 20-point games and a career-high 21 points against BYU. Additionally, Garrison’s defensive presence was felt, as he recorded 47 blocks during the season, the fifth-most ever by an Oklahoma State freshman .
Transition to Kentucky
In April 2024, Garrison transferred to Kentucky, joining head coach Mark Pope’s revamped roster. His addition brought size and versatility to the Wildcats’ frontcourt. At 6-foot-11 and 245 pounds, Garrison provided a strong interior presence, complementing the team’s existing talent. His previous experience and accolades, including being a McDonald’s All-American and a FIBA U18 Americas gold medalist with Team USA, were seen as assets to the program .
Contributions in the 2024–25 Season
During his first season with Kentucky, Garrison averaged 6.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game over 18.5 minutes per contest. His performance included a standout game against Duke, where he scored eight points on 4-of-5 shooting, along with four rebounds, two assists, one block, and one steal. Despite dealing with minor injuries that sidelined him for a few games, Garrison’s contributions were valuable to the team’s success .
Reasons for Returning
Several factors likely influenced Garrison’s decision to return to Kentucky:
- Development Under Coach Pope: Coach Mark Pope’s emphasis on player development and his track record of improving players’ skills may have appealed to Garrison as an opportunity to enhance his game further.
- Team Success and Chemistry: The Wildcats’ strong team dynamics and the presence of returning players like Otega Oweh and rising sophomore Trent Noah could have provided Garrison with a sense of continuity and the chance to contribute to a successful season.
- Personal Growth and Ambitions: Garrison’s commitment to returning suggests a desire for personal growth, both on and off the court, and a determination to help lead Kentucky to success in the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025–26 season approaches, Garrison’s return positions him as a key player in Kentucky’s frontcourt. His combination of size, skill, and experience will be crucial as the Wildcats aim for success in the SEC and beyond. With continued development and a strong supporting cast, Garrison has the potential to make a significant impact on the court and contribute to Kentucky’s pursuit of championships.
