Former Kentucky forward Kahlil Whitney is reportedly looking to return to college basketball after several high-profile player movements have opened new doors for athletes.
Whitney, who played 18 games for the Wildcats during the 2019-20 season before departing midyear, posted on Wednesday: “Recruitment officially open. With NCAA rules continuing to evolve, I’m exploring all options. Looking for the right program ready to take on the reinstatement process. Let’s work💯”
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Whitney’s path mirrors other recent cases in college hoops. James Nnaji, a player drafted in the 2023 NBA second round but who never signed an NBA contract, opted to play college basketball for the first time at Baylor. Former Alabama big man Charles Bediako attempted a return to college but only played five games under a temporary court order before being ruled ineligible.
Players like Amari Bailey, who briefly played 10 games in the NBA after leaving UCLA, and Trentyn Flowers, who played overseas and in the NBA without college experience, are also exploring playing college basketball.
Whitney, a consensus five-star recruit from Roselle Catholic, appeared in 18 games for Kentucky with eight starts, averaging 3.3 points and 1.7 rebounds. After going undrafted in 2020, he spent time in the G League with the Greensboro Swarm and Rio Grande Valley Vipers, as well as stints internationally with KK Škrljevo and Manawatu Jets. While he never played an official NBA game, Whitney’s eligibility under NCAA rules could be complicated, as the five-year clock to play four seasons started in 2019-20.
Regardless, Whitney’s statement signals his intent to explore college hoops again, adding intrigue to an evolving NCAA landscape. Fans may also remember his standout performances with Kentucky’s La Familia in The Basketball Tournament last summer, showcasing the talent he could bring back to the college game.
