Jayden Quaintance commits to Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - Jayden Quaintance is projected to be a top-five pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. On Tuesday, he committed to Mark Pope and the Wildcats, marking the latest transfer pickup for Kentucky’s roster next season.

If Quaintance’s name sounds familiar, it’s because he was initially committed to Kentucky as a five-star prospect out of high school but decommitted after John Calipari left for Arkansas. He ended up at Arizona State for his freshman season, averaging nine points, eight rebounds, and 2.5 blocks, earning spots on the Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Defensive teams.

JQ’s season was cut short after a torn ACL in late February. He underwent surgery on March 19 and is expected to be cleared for contact and ready to play in November.

Quaintaince is Kentucky’s fourth transfer portal addition joining Mouhamed Dioubate, Kam Williams and Jaland Lowe.