Daimion Collins Entering Transfer Portal After Two Seasons at Kentucky
In what is the least surprising move of the offseason for the 2022-23 Kentucky basketball roster, forward Daimion Collins is entering the transfer portal, he announced on Friday:
"In the last two years, I have encountered so many amazing people and had some incredible memories that I will cherish a lifetime.
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 decision comes after the former 5-star recruit averaged 2.9 points, 2.0 rebounds and 0.7 blocks-per-game as a sophomore this past season. He averaged just 7.5 minutes and saw action in 27 games, a similar tale to his freshman campaign.
The ceiling has always been high for the 6-foot-9 McDonald's All-American out of Atlanta, Texas. He was expected to take a leap for the Wildcats as a sophomore, but the unforeseen death of his father, Ben, instead halted the beginning of Collins' season.
"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. He’s a talented player & a good person w/ a bright future," UK head coach John Calipari tweeted. "Daimion & his family know that I’ll always be here for them."
Across 52 games over his two seasons as a Wildcat, Collins averaged 7.7 minutes a night, 2.4 points and 2.0 rebounds. He shot 51.1 percent from the floor and 73.8 percent from the free-throw line. His freakishly-athletic build led to plenty of memorable moments at the rim and will lead to plenty of interest from teams looking for a lengthy forward in the portal.
Collins is the 10th member of the 2022-23 UK roster to announce a decision:
- Portal (3): Sahvir Wheeler, CJ Fredrick, Daimion Collins
- Draft (2): Jacob Toppin, Cason Wallace
- Testing draft waters (3): Antonio Reeves, Oscar Tshiebwe, Chris Livingston
- Returning (2): Brennan Canada, Ugonna Onyenso
More on the soon-to-be Wildcats HERE.
Inside Kentucky basketball's somber locker room after NCAA Tourney defeat HERE.
More on the potential roster overhaul in Lexington HERE.
More on the loss to Kansas State HERE.
Want the latest on national football and basketball recruiting, including Cats targets? Head over to SI All-American for the latest news, blogs, and updates about the nation's best prospects.
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