Jayden Quaintance formally declares for the 2026 NBA Draft
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Jayden Quaintance is going pro.
After one season at Kentucky, the Arizona State transfer is on the move again. He told Kentucky Sports Radio on Tuesday that he has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft.
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He reflected on being a John Calipari recruit who began his career at ASU before transferring to UK for 2025-26.
“The last two years have been the most challenging and rewarding of my life,” Quaintance wrote in a note shared to KSR. “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. Thank you to Coach Cal for taking a chance on me out of high school, and Bobby Hurley and Mark Pope for believing in me and preparing me for this moment.
“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.
“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. With that being said, I’d like to announce that I will be entering the 2026 NBA Draft!”
Quaintance was limited to just 4 games during the 2025-26 season as he dealt with a knee injury. As referenced in his note, he made his Kentucky debut in the St. John’s game. He made his lone start of the season against Mizzou.
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Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
