Chandler Chooses Loyalty Over Transfer Portal: Why Kentucky Still Feels Like Home
In an era where the transfer portal is constantly reshaping college basketball, Kentucky sophomore guard Collin Chandler is choosing loyalty over uncertainty. While dozens of players across the country packed up and moved on after the season, Chandler stayed put and his reasons go far deeper than basketball.
After his freshman year in Lexington, Chandler took time to reflect, pray, and consider the next step in his career. While many expected another name to hit the portal, he surprised fans and coaches alike by remaining committed to the Wildcats.
“I’ve always been taught loyalty from my dad,” Chandler said. “But I’ve also been taught to do what’s best for your career. For me, staying here at Kentucky was both.”
It wasn’t a decision made lightly. Chandler described a spiritual process, relying on prayer and introspection as he weighed his options. “I believe there are purposes for being here that are greater than basketball,” he added. “I was pretty sure about that during the off-season.”
His freshman season saw flashes of potential, but the Utah native admits it was a whirlwind from returning home after a mission, to adjusting to SEC-level basketball, to learning the culture at Kentucky. “I didn’t know what to expect,” he said. “Now, I feel like I know my environment a little better.”
This offseason, Chandler has taken a more targeted approach to improvement. With a year of experience and the clarity that comes from stability, he’s focused on “stacking days” putting in the work daily and sharpening his skill set with a long-term vision in mind.
But basketball isn’t the only part of Chandler’s life that changed. He also got married this spring, tying the knot with longtime partner Hannah, who he says has brought balance and joy to his life off the court.
“She makes my life 10 times better,” Chandler said with a smile. “I have somebody to go home to and talk to. Hannah’s been very important to me for a long time.”
As Kentucky fans look forward to a new era under head coach Mark Pope, Chandler’s quiet leadership and commitment to the program offer a reassuring sign of continuity. He isn’t just staying for minutes or stats he’s staying because he believes in the bigger picture, both on and off the hardwood.
In a world full of uncertainty, Chandler’s loyalty is rare and in Big Blue Nation, it’s deeply appreciated.
Leave a Reply