Why Collin Chandler is set to leave Kentucky Wildcats for BYU Cougars
Why is Collin Chandler leaving Mark Pope and Kentucky Basketball?
Feb 24, 2026; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Collin Chandler (5) stares down the South Carolina Gamecocks cheerleaders after dunking during the second half at Colonial Life Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images | Jeff Blake-Imagn Images Kentucky Basketball got hit with some unexpected news on Wednesday when Collin Chandler entered the NCAA transfer portal following two seasons in Lexington . Chandler, a Utah native, is now expected to return home and play for the BYU Cougars, according to On3’s Joe Tipton and Pete Nakos , along with KSR’s Matt Jones .
At this point, it’s about as much of a sure thing that Chandler winds up playing for the Cougars as you’ll find in today’s wild world of college sports. So, why is Chandler leaving Kentucky for BYU? Money, of course, but the amount of money is what’s going to surprise you.
Chandler, who averaged 9. 7 points, 2. 8 rebounds, and 2.
3 assists this season, was believed to be asking for $3 million for his services next season. And while Matt Jones didn’t confirm this number outright, he basically did with his report that Chandler was asking for a number that would have been the second-highest(! ) payday any Wildcat has gotten.