A Sea Of Blue - Kentucky basketball recruiting in the 2023 classOnline Home of the Big Blue Nation: Kentucky Wildcats Sports for the Discerning Fanhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46621/aseaof-fav.png2023-10-16T16:32:28-04:00http://www.aseaofblue.com/rss/stream/223030232023-10-16T16:32:28-04:002023-10-16T16:32:28-04:00John Calipari interviews Big Z: ‘He gonna be good’
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<img alt="Big Z" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Tx8krDJe-s-JgsIUYmuxiea9Pxc=/140x0:1759x1079/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72762339/Screenshot_2023_10_16_162336.0.png" />
<figcaption>Coach Cal on Twitter</figcaption>
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<p>“I just want to help the team win, mostly. And I want to play for you (John Calipari) also.”</p> <p id="Scw8CG">The <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> got wonderful news recently with the addition of Zvonimir Ivisic to the men’s basketball roster.</p>
<p id="xhEgd6">Not only does Ivisic have the potential to be an impact player in Year 1, but he’ll also provide some much-needed depth to a <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/11/23913614/aaron-bradshaw-injury-ugonna-onyenso-uk-basketball-pro-day-kentucky-injuries">Kentucky frontcourt that will be without Aaron Bradshaw and Ugonna Onyenso for at least another month</a>.</p>
<p id="FDhuNi">Now that Big Z has had a chance to get accustomed to Lexington and UK’s campus, he just did a quick interview with head coach John Calipari that fans won’t want to miss.</p>
<p id="gnfBle">In the interview, the two discussed:</p>
<ul>
<li id="T7d9ff">How to pronounce his name.</li>
<li id="n3sUCg">His journey to America.</li>
<li id="mgSw9f">His younger brother, <a href="https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/buducosts-ivisic-is-excelling-in-belgrade-even-without-twin-brother/">who is also a major hoops talent</a>.</li>
<li id="c8sjX0">Testing the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> waters.</li>
<li id="3SAXxB">His goal at Kentucky.</li>
</ul>
<p id="ThkuFp">Be sure to check out the full interview below.</p>
<div id="wypErT">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Get to know a little bit about Big Z as he gets settled in on campus! <a href="https://t.co/q17fZJKIJi">https://t.co/q17fZJKIJi</a> <a href="https://t.co/ibDHxk0aD1">pic.twitter.com/ibDHxk0aD1</a></p>— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKCoachCalipari/status/1714009601622810664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2023</a>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/16/23919827/john-calipari-zvonimir-ivisic-big-z-uk-basketball-kentucky-wildcatsJason Marcum2023-10-12T11:48:26-04:002023-10-12T11:48:26-04:00Thursday Headlines: Big Z Arrives
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<img alt="Big Z" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1BU2b5e47YB-HZg7XBCDOPcdiFo=/158x370:1521x1279/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72747312/zvonimir_ivisic_2.5.jpeg" />
<figcaption>John Calipari</figcaption>
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<p>Big Z has made it campus!</p> <p id="hg8ROT"><strong>Update</strong>: Zvonimir Ivisic has finally joined the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a>.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Big Z arrival! <a href="https://twitter.com/zvonimir_ivisic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zvonimir_ivisic</a> ready for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBM23?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBM23</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Tjs3id1kr">pic.twitter.com/4Tjs3id1kr</a></p>— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1712497503860646368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Big Z and Little Cal! Finally!!! <a href="https://t.co/3X0vK37ARW">pic.twitter.com/3X0vK37ARW</a></p>— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKCoachCalipari/status/1712493218296713242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBN</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/zvonimir_ivisic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zvonimir_ivisic</a> <a href="https://t.co/o3thewq8jm">pic.twitter.com/o3thewq8jm</a></p>— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1712494778380947707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2023</a>
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<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="oTHPtr">
<p id="uW0GFm">Big Z is finally expected to make it to the University of Kentucky today. </p>
<p id="Xns9aC">As John Calipari announced during Pro Day yesterday that Aaron Bradshaw and Ugonna Onyenso likely wouldn’t return for another 5-6 weeks, the news that Big Z should make his way to campus is welcome news for a Kentucky team that doesn’t have a healthy player taller than 6’9” right now. </p>
<aside id="OfE0XJ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Big Blue Madness preview, viewing info, and recruits list","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/12/23914082/big-blue-madness-2023-start-time-tv-channel-online-stream-recruits-list-replay"}]}'></div></aside><p id="fGu5PM">By now, all of the BBN is aware of the hurdles and struggles that have accompanied getting Zvonomir Ivisic, aka Big Z, into the University of Kentucky, so the fact that we have made it to this point is something to be very happy about. </p>
<p id="dqA6Kr">Hopefully, fans temper their expectations for the big man, especially in the early going, with him not joining the team until two weeks before the first exhibition game and just a little over three weeks before the season opener. </p>
<p id="HqPjof">Nonetheless, getting him here is a big piece for this <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> team, and we’re glad to have Big Z in Lexington! </p>
<h2 id="OJFuEr">Tweet of the Day</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Back at the crib <br><br>Arrive early, be loud! <a href="https://t.co/lTcQTTaHrZ">pic.twitter.com/lTcQTTaHrZ</a></p>— Kentucky Athletics (@UKAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKAthletics/status/1712170095902904597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a>
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<p id="oImCKr">Hopefully there is a rowdy crowd at Kroger Field on Saturday. </p>
<h2 id="AnbPmv">Headlines</h2>
<p id="yQLG6i"><a href="https://www.kentucky.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/john-clay/article280392969.html">Avoiding comparisons between Brohm, Stoops - Herald Leader</a></p>
<p id="g1fcib">Two very different situations.</p>
<p id="PM8FLk"><a href="https://247sports.com/college/kentucky/article/devin-leary-kentucky-wildcats-football-217874796/">Kentucky rallying around Devin Leary - Cats Pause</a></p>
<p id="iYfgiA">The coaches still believe Leary can turn it around.</p>
<p id="sRMGHE"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/former-ohio-commit-schedules-kentucky-official-visit/">Former Ohio St. commit schedules Kentucky visit - KSR</a></p>
<p id="Bjhill">Vince Marrow is looking to lock up the lineman from Ohio.</p>
<p id="3AKrRt"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38633340/sources-nfl-mulls-george-kittle-fine-anti-cowboys-shirt">George Kittle may be fined for Anti-Cowboys shirt - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="HllWvp">Apparently the league wasn’t a huge fan of Kittle’s shirt.</p>
<p id="fAYyfU"><a href="https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10092749-predicting-the-5-biggest-nba-stars-traded-next">Will Karl-Anthony Towns be one of the next NBA stars to be traded? - Bleacher Report</a></p>
<p id="nofadj">It feels like that has been brewing for a while.</p>
<p id="HvJx5M"><a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/report-kansas-dodges-major-punishment-from-ncaa-following-multi-year-investigation-182535097.html">Kansas avoiding major penalties - Yahoo</a></p>
<p id="qcWpbK">No surprise here.</p>
<p id="MfuO0v"><a href="https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/patriots-owner-robert-kraft-open-to-firing-bill-belichick-if-new-englands-struggles-continue-per-report/">Could Belichick be fired? - CBS Sports</a></p>
<p id="yRGqUl">It would be a major 180 for one of the winningest coaches of all time. </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/12/23913186/zvonimir-ivisic-uk-wildcats-news-big-z-kentucky-basketballZac Oakes2023-10-10T21:12:21-04:002023-10-10T21:12:21-04:00Zvonimir Ivisic will make it campus on Thursday, per report
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<img alt="Zvonimir Ivisic" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bh1LXCT0xDT_h3mU8Iv6NMfGxwU=/0x0:1200x800/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72742782/zvonimir_ivisic.0.png" />
<figcaption>FIBA</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Sounds like Big Z will be here this week.</p> <p id="nlCTsu">The Zvonimir Ivisic saga has been one for the ages, but it is all finally coming to an end. The last step in this process is now just getting him to campus. It sounds like the newest <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> big man will be here very soon. </p>
<p id="SleysO">According to a report by Seth Greenberg of ESPN, Big Z will be making it to campus on Thursday. </p>
<p id="c0Xr6t">Obviously, getting Big Z to Lexington is a huge deal with the injuries to Aaron Bradshaw and Ugonna Onyenso that happened over the summer. Although both players will play for Kentucky this season once they return from injury, you can never have too much depth in the frontcourt.</p>
<p id="tyti7R">Now Ivisic will miss the Pro Day on Wednesday, but it does sound like he will be making an appearance at Big Blue Madness on Friday if he does indeed arrive on Thursday. </p>
<p id="jsD6ae">Let’s get this season rolling.</p>
<div id="J3GItj">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Will be on campus Thursday. <a href="https://t.co/W78Nn3pzvY">https://t.co/W78Nn3pzvY</a></p>— Seth Greenberg (@SethOnHoops) <a href="https://twitter.com/SethOnHoops/status/1711886229942247928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/10/23912208/zvonimir-ivisic-kentucky-basketball-dateEthan DeWitt2023-10-05T12:40:24-04:002023-10-05T12:40:24-04:00John Calipari reacts to Big Z finally getting admitted to UK
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<img alt="Zvonimir Ivisic" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sdUPxdwSM3W29pX9YF-0yyBPDVY=/0x105:667x550/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72724523/image.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a class="ql-link" href="https://www.fiba.basketball/europe/u20/2023/player/Zvonimir-Ivisic/#iset=d7507922-b5cf-4acf-b8e3-6ad8c780fc13&iid=8b8ac4ba-5af6-4988-a1ac-8226050b4a1c" target="_blank">FIBA</a></figcaption>
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<p>Smiles all around.</p> <p id="RgGqBz"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23871148/zvonimir-ivisic-uk-kentucky-basketball">Big Z is finally free</a>.</p>
<p id="i601nz">With news that Zvonimir Ivisic was finally admitted to UK, the Croatian center is now set to play the upcoming season for the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> men’s basketball team.</p>
<p id="WuYrU6"><a href="https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-basketball-men/article279141014.html">It was quite the odyssey to get Z admitted</a>, but that’s thankfully in the past now, and John Calipari couldn’t contain his excitement.</p>
<p id="HvcMlS">On Thursday, Coach Cal released his first public comments since Big Z was freed, expressing not only his joy for adding the talented big man to the roster, but also opening the door for more international prospects to make their way to Lexington.</p>
<p id="KzvOsU">“I can’t tell you how happy I am with how this all turned out,” <a href="https://twitter.com/UKCoachCalipari/status/1709913577132265652">said Calipari on Twitter</a>. “The work was done by Big Z and his family. For him to be persistent and keep fighting was so impressive, and it showed how badly he wanted to be a part of our team! He overcame all obstacles and just wouldn’t be deterred.</p>
<p id="vMoN0G">“When we started recruiting Z, my mind started moving to how we can help our University become even more prominent worldwide. This basketball program is a global brand, and now we can continue to open new avenues for students to come to the University of Kentucky. Let’s continue to pursue some of the best basketball players in the world and showcase what a great institution the University of Kentucky is!”</p>
<p id="4KbyKy">With this addition, Kentucky gets some much-needed frontcourt depth for the upcoming season. As of now, Tre Mitchell is the only healthy big man on the roster, while Ugonna Onyenso and Aaron Bradshaw are still recovering from injuries.</p>
<p id="atEuPp">The plan is for Ivisic to arrive in Lexington in the coming days, so hopefully, we’ll get to see him in action at Big Blue Madness and in the two exhibition games.</p>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/5/23904877/zvonimir-ivisic-kentucky-wildcats-basketball-john-calipari-coach-calJason Marcum2023-10-04T12:02:53-04:002023-10-04T12:02:53-04:00Zvonimir Ivisic admitted to UK
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<img alt="Zvonimir Ivišić" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O1gfjWr6LlOGHeM0jXsAvQGKJzo=/0x0:5760x3840/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72720275/20221217180305_FRO_0358.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><strong>SC Derby</strong>/<strong>Filip Roganovic</strong></figcaption>
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<p>The Cats will likely have Big Z for the 2023-24 season. </p> <p id="lVRtxZ">The news all of BBN has been patiently waiting to hear has finally come true. Zvonimir Ivisic will play for the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a>.</p>
<p id="qVu0MI">On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaabk/basketball-recruit-zvonimir-ivi%C5%A1i%C4%87-has-been-admitted-to-the-university-of-kentucky/ar-AA1hGy7m">Ben Roberts of the Herald-Leader</a> reported that the Croatian center had been admitted to the University of Kentucky.</p>
<blockquote><p id="p8IBJk">UK spokesperson Jay Blanton told the Herald-Leader on Wednesday morning that Ivišić has been admitted to the university as a student. There was no immediate word on a timetable for his arrival in Lexington, though he is expected to join the Wildcats’ basketball team soon.</p></blockquote>
<p id="7FH45x">We have to note this does not guarantee he is eligible to play this season, as he still has to be cleared by the NCAA as an amateur, but this is a major step toward getting him on the court for next season.</p>
<p id="SVxzlA">This recruitment has been an interesting one from his commitment all the way to this moment now. </p>
<aside id="IhuJcQ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Twitter reactions to UK getting Big Z and Brian Robinson","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23903668/kentucky-wildcats-twitter-big-z-brian-robinson-zvonimir-ivisic-uk-basketball"}]}'></div></aside><p id="TXotqj">First, it started with the Kentucky staff hoping to keep his recruitment quiet, to propel themselves to the top of his list. That was followed by his exciting commitment that got the BBN buzzing. I think we all still wish all recruits' commitments would be as simple as Big Z’s. </p>
<p id="VGJP4v">Fast-forward to the program's official announcement of Ivisic, and all seemed to be on the right track. </p>
<p id="Mo7bUm">Until word got out that it wasn't.</p>
<p id="27GBHJ">That brings us to the last few weeks, which have been filled with drama on top of drama. </p>
<p id="1HAZoN">The final say? UK’s admissions department wouldn't budge. </p>
<p id="55MQ0L">Then, John Calipari and his staff locked in and made sure this whole process made it across the finish line. And that is exactly what they did.</p>
<p id="AmD4z3">Now, with Ivisic finally on campus, the final roster for the 2023-24 season is set. The frontcourt is still going to be an interesting storyline to follow, however. With Tre Mitchell alongside Aaron Bradshaw and Ugonna Kingsley (who both are coming off foot injuries), now adding in Big Z, the depth is now there, but who will push themselves ahead of the pack to be the anchor for this team down low? </p>
<p id="7l85mp"><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaabk/basketball-recruit-zvonimir-ivi%C5%A1i%C4%87-has-been-admitted-to-the-university-of-kentucky/ar-AA1hGy7m">Be sure to read Roberts’ full report for a complete timeline of #FreeBigZ.</a></p>
<div id="qrLlYJ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to the family, <a href="https://twitter.com/zvonimir_ivisic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zvonimir_ivisic</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaFamilia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaFamilia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jvWJxsm33c">pic.twitter.com/jvWJxsm33c</a></p>— Kentucky Men’s Basketball (@KentuckyMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentuckyMBB/status/1691170483394482177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2023</a>
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https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23871148/zvonimir-ivisic-uk-kentucky-basketballEthan DeWitt2023-10-04T06:15:00-04:002023-10-04T06:15:00-04:00Wednesday Headlines: Kentucky - Indiana and Zvonimir Ivisic
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<img alt="Zvonimir Ivisic" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sOXFtYfb8Td-7Be4_GZ9MZDzQrs=/0x0:1200x800/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72719083/zvonimir_ivisic.0.png" />
<figcaption>FIBA</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>#FreeBigZ</p> <p id="KWtMd9"><strong>Update</strong>: <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23871148/zvonimir-ivisic-uk-kentucky-basketball">Zvonimir Ivisic has been admitted to the University of Kentucky</a>!</p>
<p id="bimZqR">While Big Z hasn’t been ruled fully eligible for next season, this was the biggest obstacle left to overcome. Despite the odds being against UK, Coach Cal and Co. found a way to get this one to the finish line.</p>
<p id="cKz4Ey">Oh, and <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23757246/brian-robinson-recruit-kentucky-wildcats-football">Brian Robinson is a Cat!</a></p>
<aside id="tBniru"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Twitter reactions to UK getting Big Z and Brian Robinson","url":"https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23903668/kentucky-wildcats-twitter-big-z-brian-robinson-zvonimir-ivisic-uk-basketball"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="nAu3QX">
<p id="LtHIUV">Happy Wednesday, BBN! Great news, <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/3/23901743/kentucky-basketball-basketball-vs-indiana-hoosiers-series-rivalry-games">the Kentucky vs. Indiana rivalry is BACK</a>.</p>
<p id="UIhT8O">The Cats and the Hoosiers are set to revive their men’s basketball rivalry series, starting in the 2025-26 season. </p>
<p id="S6TsLC">The four-game series will include two matches in Lexington, one in Indianapolis, and one in Bloomington. </p>
<p id="10lF9H">The scheduled games are: </p>
<ul>
<li id="3Glwlu">Dec. 20, 2025, at Rupp Arena</li>
<li id="XrGtSI">Dec. 27, 2026, at Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis, Indiana)</li>
<li id="jUJxm9">Dec. 18, 2027, at Rupp Arena</li>
<li id="TJQXGy">Dec. 16, 2028, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall (Bloomington, Indiana) </li>
</ul>
<p id="s3OTnx"><a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> head coach John Calipari expressed excitement about the return of this significant rivalry. UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart echoed the sentiment, highlighting the series’ rich history in college basketball. </p>
<p id="8KJuAq">The two teams haven’t faced off in a regular season game since 2011, marking the longest break in their series since a 21-year gap from 1944 to 1965. </p>
<p id="gL82BV">Historically, they played 43 consecutive seasons, with the series pausing after 2011. The teams have met in various locations, including Bloomington, Lexington, Indianapolis, and Louisville. </p>
<p id="S1qNAl">Their most recent encounter was in the 2016 NCAA Tournament, where Indiana defeated Kentucky. Overall, UK leads the series with 32 wins to Indiana’s 25.</p>
<p id="m7KSpm">That’s not the only good news on the hardwood.</p>
<p id="8jf7lR"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/zvonimir-ivisic-is-in-university-of-kentucky-student-directory/">According to KSR</a>, Zvonimir Ivisic is officially in the University of Kentucky student directory, which would seemingly signal he’s going to play for the men’s basketball team.</p>
<blockquote><p id="M7iEAG">Ivisic is officially in the University of Kentucky student directory, multiple sources tell KSR, a sign that his admissions hurdles have been cleared. The 7-foot-2 standout had been awaiting clearance from the school regarding an English proficiency exam that previously withheld him from enrolling and receiving a student visa.</p></blockquote>
<p id="x77ufr">For a while, it appeared Big Z may not get to suit up for UK, so this would be some very welcome good news ahead of the new season. Coach Cal’s team certainly has plenty of talent, but there was concern it had enough frontcourt depth.</p>
<p id="b2YTwR">Big Z could certainly solve that question, so here’s to hoping this finally get’s to the finish line.</p>
<h2 id="dPEt3t"><strong>Tweet of the Day</strong></h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RB <a href="https://twitter.com/Ray_Davis07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ray_Davis07</a> is <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMaxwellAward?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheMaxwellAward</a> National Player of the Week. <a href="https://t.co/rWMdd7QL7U">pic.twitter.com/rWMdd7QL7U</a></p>— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKFootball/status/1709314093872742497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2023</a>
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<p id="w2LK9S">Ray Davis gets recognized after a historic game against Florida. </p>
<h2 id="HVatre"><strong>Headlines</strong></h2>
<p id="eUImBp"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/zvonimir-ivisic-is-in-university-of-kentucky-student-directory/">Zvonimir Ivisic is in University of Kentucky student directory - KSR</a></p>
<p id="Y2ZfaZ">Ivisic, a native of Vitez, Croatia, announced his commitment to Kentucky on August 1 and signed with the program two weeks later.</p>
<p id="jUBILj"><a href="https://www.si.com/college/kentucky/football/kentucky-opens-as-a-big-underdog-against-the-georgia-bulldogs-sec-football-college-football-vegas">Kentucky Briefing: Kentucky opens as a big road underdog against the #1 Georgia Bulldogs - Sports Illustrated </a></p>
<p id="ACqnC1">Money has poured in on the Cats, as the lined has already moved 4.5 points. </p>
<p id="A9AAdJ"><a href="https://www.kentucky.com/sports/college/kentucky-sports/uk-football/article280030409.html#storylink=cpy">Ticket prices soar as Kentucky prepares to play No. 1 Georgia. Check out these rates - Herald Leader</a></p>
<p id="ifjJ5g">Kentucky is becoming a big-ticket item in College Football.</p>
<p id="36TNAN"><a href="https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/kentucky-sports-betting-off-to-a-strong-start/">Kentucky sports betting off to a strong start - FOX 56</a></p>
<p id="WMOB95">The Bluegrass is having a great time with <a href="https://dknation.draftkings.com/">Sports Betting</a>.</p>
<p id="QQTt7S"><a href="https://247sports.com/college/kentucky/Article/mark-stoops-among-10-highest-paid-coaches-in-college-football--217413774/">Mark Stoops among 10 highest-paid coaches in college football - 247</a></p>
<p id="fxHoEC">The contract is looking pretty great now, right BBN?</p>
<p id="wPtblF"><a href="https://ugawire.usatoday.com/lists/what-kentucky-coach-mark-stoops-said-about-georgia-football/">What Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said about Georgia - UGA Wire</a></p>
<p id="gnrjVA">Always class and respect from Coach Stoops, especially with the defending champs up next. </p>
<p id="RUqp28"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38558036/jets-aaron-rodgers-attacking-rehab-eyes-return-season">Jets’ Aaron Rodgers ‘attacking’ rehab, eyes return this season - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="V4hjNn">Could Aaron Rodgers actually return this season?</p>
<p id="EIXdCe"><a href="https://apnews.com/article/mlb-playoffs-braves-dodgers-orioles-2023-0d13287959441fb79e512c1341dc9f73">MLB playoffs guide: Openers Tuesday at Minnesota, Tampa Bay, Milwaukee and Philadelphia - AP Sports</a></p>
<p id="HatLl2">October Baseball is here.</p>
<p id="09hfGG"><a href="https://apnews.com/article/nba-rest-kawhi-load-management-5ce333d8524e34711988cdb367c30594">New rest rules don’t bother NBA players, who say they only want to sit out when they are hurt - AP Sports</a></p>
<p id="Az9336">Kawhi is unfazed at the new NBA rules. </p>
<p id="AzYvDz"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F4921847%2F2023%2F10%2F03%2Fnfl-power-rankings-49ers-eagles-chaos%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aseaofblue.com%2F2023%2F10%2F4%2F23902163%2Fzvonimir-ivisic-kentucky-vs-indiana-uk-wildcats-news" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NFL Power Rankings Week 5: 49ers, Eagles rule and Dolphins tumble on Chaos Week - The Athletic</a></p>
<p id="XY96IE">We’re about a quarter into the NFL season, check out who’s climbing and who’s falling. </p>
<p id="gsiCt8"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usatoday.com%2Fstory%2Fsports%2Fnfl%2F2023%2F10%2F03%2Fchiefs-jets-taylor-swift-sunday-night-football-ratings%2F71044088007%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aseaofblue.com%2F2023%2F10%2F4%2F23902163%2Fzvonimir-ivisic-kentucky-vs-indiana-uk-wildcats-news" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Behind Taylor Swift, Chiefs-Jets is NFL’s second-most watched game of 2023 regular season - USA Today</a></p>
<p id="w5eYm2">Taylor Swift is making the NFL very happy... and a lot of money.</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/10/4/23902163/zvonimir-ivisic-kentucky-vs-indiana-uk-wildcats-newsTJ Barnett2023-09-13T12:36:38-04:002023-09-13T12:36:38-04:00Bleak update on Zvonimir Ivisic
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<img alt="Zvonimir Ivišić" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SHfZXsGZ24KjfbAZak4TjMXfPBc=/0x0:5760x3840/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72637946/20221217180305_FRO_0358.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><strong>SC Derby</strong>/<strong>Filip Roganovic</strong></figcaption>
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<p>Sounds like Big Z won’t be freed after all.</p> <p id="9LAEbV"><strong>UPDATE</strong></p>
<p id="bwfu2C"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/branham-im-not-banking-on-zvonimir-ivisic-being-on-this-roster/">In an interview with KSR</a>, 247 Sports reporter Travis Branham said he doesn’t believe Zvonimi Ivisic will play at Kentucky.</p>
<p id="8CxbcK">“To be honest, I’m not banking on him being on this roster next year,” Branham said. “I think it’s a very longshot bet.”</p>
<p id="tFO4po">Assuming Ivisic doesn’t end up in Lexington, Branham said that DePaul is the school being rumored the most to land the Croatian big man.</p>
<p id="Mu3lT7"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/branham-im-not-banking-on-zvonimir-ivisic-being-on-this-roster/">Be sure to read the full story here</a>.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="W5dx12">
<p id="K2JgPs">The situation regarding Zvonimir Ivisic and the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> has yet to be resolved. It’s been a week since <a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/concern-growing-regarding-zvonimir-ivisics-status-at-kentucky/">Kentucky Sports Radio’s Jack Pilgrim</a> reported that there was concern regarding Ivisic and his status at UK.</p>
<p id="V7sLnx">Ivisic has yet to be cleared by the University of Kentucky admissions office. Why, you have probably asked? While there isn’t exactly a clear answer, and instead, it’s been mostly just speculation, the assumption is that Ivisic doesn’t speak English well enough.</p>
<p id="gEZbhR">And you’re probably thinking what everyone else has said over the last week: “Really?”</p>
<div id="5fduZA">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Zvonimir Ivisic situation is frustrating because it is completely unnecessary.<br><br>- UK is not an Ivy League school<br>- Ivisic fluently speaks English (video attached).<br>- Ivisic has passed an English equivalency exam, just not one accepted by UK.<br><br>Grant the waiver. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeBigZ?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeBigZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/MfSE4HR0vZ">pic.twitter.com/MfSE4HR0vZ</a></p>— Tristan Pharis (@TristanUda) <a href="https://twitter.com/TristanUda/status/1699150716961497320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2023</a>
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<p id="UNi6G8">There have been multiple pieces of content on Twitter and social media of Ivisic speaking fluent English. So it’s unsure of what the hold-up is.</p>
<p id="HJXVfZ">But one thing’s for certain: if Ivisic isn’t admitted soon, there’s a good chance he sets his sights on another college basketball program to suit up for this year. That would be a huge blow to John Calipari’s team, especially considering the lack of frontcourt depth for this year’s roster.</p>
<p id="nZ5r9O">We’ll find out soon enough if Ivisic is admitted to Kentucky. For now, fans can only hope and pray the admissions office makes the right call.</p>
<h2 id="9W0gjA"><strong>Tweet of the Day</strong></h2>
<div id="BDfFCr">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Immanuel Quickley could be seeking Jalen Brunson type money from the Knicks, per <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanDeveney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SeanDeveney</a> <br><br>“One NBA executive said the expected asking price for Quickley will put him in the range of what Brunson got from the Knicks—four years and $104 million. That might be a little too… <a href="https://t.co/Ii1ns051LC">pic.twitter.com/Ii1ns051LC</a></p>— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1701428244862374250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2023</a>
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<p id="r0gcsx">Immanuel Quickley about to get paid!</p>
<h2 id="IwEKd5"><strong>Headlines</strong></h2>
<p id="kAYu8p"><a href="https://www.yoursportsedge.com/2023/09/11/former-cats-say-not-to-panic-about-this-season-yet/vaughts-views/larryvaught/">Former Cats Say Not To Panic About This Season Yet - Vaught’s Views</a></p>
<p id="uPIdVm">Are you concerned?</p>
<p id="LxaJc4"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38380797/chiefs-dt-chris-jones-agree-new-1-year-contract">Chiefs, DT Chris Jones agree to new 1-year contract - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="TvUnsJ">But was it worth it?</p>
<p id="wjZEaV"><a href="https://www.yoursportsedge.com/2023/09/11/better-attitude-leading-to-better-production-for-tayvion-robinson/vaughts-views/larryvaught/">Better Attitude, Better Production for Tayvion Robinson - Vaught’s Views</a></p>
<p id="5wgJ98">He had a heck of a game Saturday.</p>
<p id="UQrXCr"><a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/38380947/tucker-denies-harassment-claims-calls-msu-hearing-ridiculously-flawed">Tucker denies harassment claims, calls hearing ‘ridiculously flawed’ - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="8NWseC">Drama.</p>
<p id="nxyFQP"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/ashland-mayor-presents-john-calipari-with-key-to-the-city/">Ashland mayor presents John Calipari with key to the city - KSR</a></p>
<p id="Bu2lOF">Cal really has done a lot for the state of KY.</p>
<p id="oq8agq"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38380347/john-harbaugh-ravens-staying-house-replace-jk-dobbins">Ravens staying in-house to replace J.K. Dobbins - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="XfhYuw">Another season-ending injury.</p>
<p id="1vIDpy"><a href="https://www.on3.com/teams/kentucky-wildcats/news/mark-stoops-prepared-for-very-creative-akron-under-joe-moorhead/">Mark Stoops prepared for ‘very creative’ Akron under Joe Moorhead - KSR</a></p>
<p id="zM4QHV">Would love to see UK put a complete game together.</p>
<p id="vWHm2p"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/38380753/source-steelers-cameron-heyward-miss-several-weeks">Steelers’ Cameron Heyward could miss several weeks - ESPN</a></p>
<p id="0AWl69">Huge blow for them.</p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/9/12/23869542/uk-wildcats-news-zvonimir-ivisicJohn Morgan Francis2023-08-30T06:00:00-04:002023-08-30T06:00:00-04:00Kentucky has 2 of the most exciting freshmen for the 2023-24 season
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<img alt="DJ Wagner. Justin Edwards." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8kP5U_2Pt4S0ZngrdoEbTsnqK9g=/306x287:1161x857/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72592762/dj_wagner_justin_edwards_drew_brown.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Drew Brown - A Sea Of Blue</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Justin Edwards and D.J. Wagner are expected to put on a show in Lexington.</p> <p id="aXVveW">With four five-star recruits coming to Lexington, the <a href="https://www.aseaofblue.com">Kentucky Wildcats</a> have the nation’s best class set to join returning players like Antonio Reeves. The Cats' incoming prospects are both athletic and have an ultra-high ceiling, one often difficult for freshmen to hit. </p>
<p id="eEsfim">Nonetheless, many analysts are excited to see them take the court, specifically Justin Edwards and DJ Wagner, both of whom were top-ten recruits in the Class of 2023. Edwards finished at No. 5 on 247S ports recruiting rankings, with Wagner coming in at No. 6. Aaron Bradshaw, a 7-foot center and fellow Kentucky recruit, came in at No. 5. </p>
<p id="g3siln">Excitement for this upcoming season is starting to brew, and analysts alike are hoping these freshmen are fun to watch. A pair of <a href="https://twitter.com/CBSSportsCBB/status/1695118559620297015">CBS Sports writers</a> pegged two freshmen as the ones they are most excited to watch this upcoming season. </p>
<p id="ggaESQ">Gary Parrish dubbed Wagner as the most exciting, while Kyle Boone chose Edwards. Wagner stands 6-foot-3 and should be the team’s starting point guard, while Edwards stands 6-foot-7 and should start at small forward. </p>
<p id="5MfRAS">Edwards has major expectations this upcoming season as the best small forward in his recruiting class. In Sports Illustrated’s recent mock draft, Edwards is listed as the No. 2 overall pick behind Ron Holland. </p>
<p id="O58nqo">Wagner has already shown flashes of what he can do as well, being dubbed the Co-MVP for the McDonald’s All-American Game, just one of a lofty list of accomplishments for the star guard. </p>
<p id="R83eNQ">For the poll, other freshmen who received nominations are Isaiah Collier and Jared McCain. Collier is the top-ranked recruit in the class, while the 6-foot-2 McCain came in at No. 13. </p>
https://www.aseaofblue.com/2023/8/30/23851137/kentucky-wildcats-basketball-best-freshmen-2023-24-seasonNathanBeighle