LEXINGTON, Ky. (KT) — Jayden Quaintance became the second Kentucky player to declare for the NBA Draft.
Quaintance committed to Kentucky, then opted to sign with Arizona State following John Calipari’s departure in 2024. After playing one season with the Sun Devils, Quaintance entered the transfer portal and signed with the Wildcats.
Quaintance spent most of the season rehabbing from a torn ACL injury and played in just four games before a swollen knee sidelined Quaintance during the last three months of the season.
“The last two years have been the most challenging and rewarding of my life,” he said in a social media post. “I experienced highs I could only dream of as a kid, and lows that are every athlete’s worst nightmare. Through it all, I learned so much about myself and grew as a man. My college journey didn’t end the way anyone hoped, but I’m thankful for the unwavering support along the way.”
Quaintance credited Arkansas coach John Calipari, former Arizona State coach Bobby Hurley, and Kentucky coach Mark Pope for “believing in me and preparing me for this moment.”
Despite limited action on the court, Quaintance added that his lone season at Kentucky won’t be forgotten. He played in five games and scored 10 points, including 10 to go with a pair of blocks in a win over St. John’s in Atlanta.
“My full-circle experience with Kentucky has been the opportunity of a lifetime. I still remember that roar at Rupp Arena after I signed in 2024 and seeing it through with the St. John’s win in “Catlanta” for my first game back is something I’ll always cherish,” he said. “Like you, I wanted more, but I hope Big Blue Nation continues to support me as I chase my dreams. I’ll always bleed blue and proudly represent the Wildcats.”
Quaintance joins Malachi Moreno in declaring for the NBA Draft. He left open the option of returning to Kentucky.